NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year Odds: Top Contenders for 2024 Season

The NFL Draft has come and gone, but the speculation about how rookies will perform in their new roles is just beginning. Every prospect’s success hinges on their own skills, adaptability, and how well they fit into their new team’s system. To gauge which defensive rookies might make the biggest immediate impact, we’re examining the latest NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year odds, courtesy of FanDuel.

Top Contenders for Defensive Rookie of the Year

Two edge rushers stand out as early favorites to win the award, each with identical odds:

• David Bailey (+500), EDGE – New York Jets

Bailey is expected to contribute right away after the Jets selected him with the No. 2 overall pick. His steady production—14.5 sacks last season at Texas Tech—and projectable traits made him a safer bet than riskier, less polished prospects. If Aaron Glenn’s defense elevates to above-average levels, Bailey could quickly become a focal point in turning the Jets’ fortunes around.

• Rueben Bain Jr. (+500), EDGE – Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Bain’s ability to dominate games was on full display during Miami’s run to the CFB Championship. Now, he joins a Buccaneers team that has struggled to close out games consistently. Tampa’s NFC South rivals are also bolstering their offensive firepower, adding pressure on Bain to make an immediate impact. Todd Bowles’ defense thrives on unique pass-rushing schemes, particularly around DT Vita Vea, which could amplify Bain’s rookie-year production.

Long-Shot Options with High Upside

Several defensive rookies offer intriguing value at longer odds, with the potential to outperform expectations:

• Arvell Reese (+750), LB – New York Giants

Reese will start immediately alongside a stacked linebacker corps that includes Brian Burns, Tremaine Edmunds, and Kayvon Thibodeaux. If offenses focus on neutralizing these stars, Reese could emerge as a disruptive force, racking up eye-popping stats.

• Mansoor Delane (+850), CB – Kansas City Chiefs

Delane steps into a high-pressure role after the Chiefs traded away both of last year’s starting cornerbacks. The former Virginia Tech and LSU standout will play in a big-market city, where standout performances will generate significant buzz. His early success could redefine the Chiefs’ secondary.

• Sonny Styles (+900), LB – Washington Commanders

Styles is poised to fill the Bobby Wagner role in Dan Quinn’s Washington Commanders defense. The converted safety led the Buckeyes in tackles last season and will benefit from playing alongside disruptive LB Frankie Luvu. His versatility and instincts make him a dark horse for defensive rookie honors.

• Caleb Downs (+900), S – Dallas Cowboys

Downs will be a focal point in Dallas Cowboys’ new Defensive Coordinator Christian Parker’s 3-4 scheme. Parker’s familiarity with the division—having served as the Cowboys’ passing game coordinator and DBs coach—could accelerate Downs’ development. His impact in coverage and run support will be critical for a Cowboys defense looking to rebound.