The majority of action in the NFL offseason is in the books. Between coaching changes, free agency, and the 2026 NFL Draft, each of the 32 teams is mostly set up for the upcoming season. This incoming rookie class is strong at the top on the defensive side of the ball. There should be several rookies who make an early impact on defense. With the 2026 season four months away, who are the top early defensive rookie of the year candidates? Unlike the award’s offensive counterpart, the defensive rookie of the year is open to more positions. Which rookies have the best combination of skill and situation to take home some hardware in 2026?
Early Defensive Rookie of the Year Candidates in 2026
1. David Bailey, DE, New York Jets
David Bailey was the first defensive prospect to hear his name called, taken second overall. Bailey is the best pure pass rusher in this class, racking up 14.5 sacks in 2025. He displays an explosive first step off the line of scrimmage and an elite combination of speed and bend. His aforementioned speed and bend allow him to quickly close on opposing quarterbacks. Bailey also has a variety of pass-rush moves to beat opposing offensive tackles. Having impressive sack production is the best way to gain attention for defensive awards. Bailey has the best chance among all rookies to have high sack production, making him the best among all early defensive rookie of the year candidates.
2. Rueben Bain Jr., DE, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
While Bailey is the best pure pass rusher in this class, Rueben Bain Jr. is the best all-around edge rusher. Bain fell to Tampa Bay at 15th overall, solving a significant need for the Buccaneers. He has exceptional burst and speed while also playing with great power. His run defense is another strength, providing every-down value on the defensive line. Bain posted a stellar 92.5 PFF grade in 2025, good for third-best among all edge rushers.
The biggest question regarding his chances compared to other defensive rookie of the year candidates is sack production. While his sack production in college was good, there were missed opportunities to have even stronger numbers. If Bain can finish reps more consistently at the next level, there’s no reason he can’t be the best defensive rookie in 2026.
3. Mansoor Delane, CB, Kansas City Chiefs
The Chiefs had a desperate need at cornerback after losing Trent McDuffie and Jaylen Watson this offseason. They traded up to take Mansoor Delane with the sixth-overall selection. Whether the trade-up was necessary, Kansas City made a significant addition to its secondary. Among the top defensive rookie of the year candidates, Delane likely will be on the best team. While team success isn’t required to win defensive rookie of the year, it certainly doesn’t hurt playing for a premier franchise. Delane is excellent in man coverage, having the movement skills to line up on the boundary and stick with opposing WR1s. He has good ball skills and is a willing tackler, which helps the stat sheet.
While corners don’t win the award as often as edge rushers, three have taken home the award since 2015. Kansas City’s recent track record of developing cornerbacks is incredible. Delane’s talent, paired with the perfect situation for him to succeed, should translate to early production. He has the best combination of ability and situation among the top defensive rookie of the year candidates.
Early 2026 NFL Defensive Rookie Of the Year
Louisiana State University cornerback Mansoor Delane (4) reacts during the third quarter at Memorial Stadium in Clemson, S.C., Saturday, August 30, 2025.
4. Sonny Styles, LB, Washington Commanders
While Sonny Styles doesn’t play a premium position like edge rusher or cornerback, he has a case as the best talent among all defensive rookie of the year candidates. He possesses a rare combination of size and athleticism, having excellent range and closing ability. Styles is also an elite run defender and shows a high football IQ in zone coverage. Washington had the worst total defense in football in 2025, which Styles should help improve.
He should rack up plenty of tackles to make a statistical case for the award, and he has upside as a pass rusher. The biggest obstacle for Styles winning defensive rookie of the year is his position, although Carson Schwesinger won in 2025 playing off-the-ball linebacker. If Styles performs well and the Commanders’ defense improves convincingly, he has a strong case.
5. Caleb Downs, S, Dallas Cowboys
Caleb Downs is the most intriguing option among all defensive rookie of the year candidates. Downs is the best player in this class; however, a safety hasn’t won defensive rookie of the year since Mark Carrier in 1990. If there is a player who can defy trends, it’s Downs. He provides value in a multitude of ways, as he is a good run defender, tackler, and does well in man coverage. His ability to bait quarterbacks as a zone defender is also remarkable, and he can be productive from various positions.
Playing for Dallas also doesn’t hurt when it comes to getting recognition. While safeties historically have a harder time winning defensive rookie of the year than any other position, Downs’ talent still makes him a viable candidate.