2021 NFL Draft: 3 early candidates for Defensive Rookie of the Year

1. Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah, LB, Browns

One of the biggest steals in the entire 2021 NFL Draft went to the Cleveland Browns drafting Notre Dame linebacker Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah in the second round with the 52nd overall pick.

The Browns needed tremendous help on the defensive side of the ball this offseason. After selecting a cornerback in the first round with Northwestern’s Greg Newsome II, they made the quick selection for a star in the middle of their defense.

The middle linebacker position was an area that needed more consistency and more depth. Last season, the Browns’ defense was ranked 21st in the league in points allowed (26.2) as well as 22nd in passing yards allowed (247.6). Finally, they allowed a third-down conversion rate of 43 percent and a fourth-down conversion rate of 81 percent.

They need some solidity and more leadership for their defense as their offense has become a highly productive phase of their team. He could also play weakside linebacker to provide depth and reliability if they need more efficient players on the field at the same time. Koramoah is a quick and efficient player as he can get in the backfield fast, chase down the ball carrier, and provide support in the run and passing game.

The Browns have added a reliable potential day one starter as he will be a favorite for the defensive rookie of the year award. The last second-round selected player to win the NFL defensive rookie of the year award was Darius Leonard in 2018.

If there is a player from the second round that could win it this year, it will be Koramoah.