2024-25 NFL DPOY: Odds & Lines for the NFL's Best Defensive Players

Browns defensive end Myles Garrett won the NFL Defensive Player of the Year last season, but can he grab another award victory this year? Check out the list of the most recent winners of the prestigious award given to the league's best defensive player.

Data via SportsOddsHistory

The NFL Defensive Player of the Year (DPOY) is given the most outstanding defensive player in a given season -- but what does that mean, exactly? Over the years, the DPOY has been awarded to players from various defensive positions, though pass rushers have dominated the award, since sacks are more quantifiable than most other defensive metrics.

Edge Rushers: The Sack Masters

Edge rushers—players who line up on the outside of the defensive line or as outside linebackers and are primarily tasked with rushing the quarterback—have been the most common recipients of the DPOY award. These players are typically recognized for their ability to consistently disrupt the passing game, either by sacking the quarterback, forcing fumbles, or pressuring the quarterback into making mistakes. In a league where the passing game has become increasingly dominant, the ability to disrupt the quarterback is one of the most valuable defensive skills.

To win the DPOY, an edge rusher usually needs to have a season where they lead the league or rank near the top in sacks, tackles for loss, and forced fumbles. Players like Aaron Donald, T.J. Watt, and Khalil Mack have epitomized the type of impact an edge rusher needs to have to win the award. Aaron Donald, who has won the DPOY three times (2017, 2018, and 2020), is known not just for his sack totals but for his ability to dominate the line of scrimmage, disrupt plays in the backfield, and consistently demand double teams from offensive linemen.

Defensive Tackles: The Interior Disruptors

While edge rushers often receive the most attention, dominant defensive tackles have also been frequent winners of the DPOY. Defensive tackles play a crucial role in both stopping the run and pressuring the quarterback from the interior of the defensive line. To win the DPOY, a defensive tackle typically needs to not only excel in these areas but also show the ability to take over games by collapsing the pocket, making tackles for loss, and controlling the line of scrimmage.

Aaron Donald, primarily a defensive tackle, is a prime example of this. His ability to penetrate offensive lines and disrupt both the run and pass games has made him one of the most dominant defensive players of his generation. His three DPOY awards are a testament to his impact on the game from the interior of the defensive line. Other notable defensive tackles who have won the award include Warren Sapp and J.J. Watt (who also played as a defensive end), both of whom were known for their ability to wreak havoc from the inside.

Linebackers: The Defensive Leaders

Linebackers, particularly those who play in the middle of the defense, have also been prominent winners of the DPOY. These players are often considered the "quarterbacks" of the defense, responsible for calling plays, making adjustments, and ensuring that all players are in the right position. Linebackers who win the DPOY typically have a well-rounded skill set, excelling in run defense, pass coverage, and pass rushing.

To win the DPOY, a linebacker usually needs to lead their team in tackles while also contributing with sacks, interceptions, and forced fumbles. Players like Ray Lewis and Luke Kuechly exemplify the type of impact a linebacker must have to win the award. Ray Lewis, a two-time DPOY winner, was known for his leadership, tackling ability, and knack for making game-changing plays, whether through a key sack, interception, or forced fumble. Kuechly, who won the award in 2013, was celebrated for his football intelligence, sideline-to-sideline range, and ability to impact both the run and pass game.

Defensive Backs: The Ball Hawks

Although less common, defensive backs—cornerbacks and safeties—have also won the DPOY, particularly those who excel at creating turnovers and shutting down opposing receivers. For a defensive back to win the DPOY, they typically need to have an exceptional season in terms of interceptions and pass breakups. You can't be too good where no quarterback is throwing your way.

Players like Charles Woodson and Stephon Gilmore have won the DPOY by being the best in coverage and consistently taking away a team's top receiving threat. Gilmore, who won the award in 2019, was known for his ability to lock down receivers in man coverage, leading the league in interceptions and pass breakups that season. Woodson, a versatile defensive back who won the award in 2009, was celebrated for his ability to play multiple positions in the secondary, his football IQ, and his knack for making big plays when it mattered most.