2025-26 NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year Odds & Picks

NFL DROY: Players to Watch

Abdul Carter (+185) at BetOnline

The New York Giants added the top defensive player in this year’s NFL Draft. Abdul Carter closed out his final season with the Penn State Nittany Lions after earning 12 sacks and 68 total tackles.

The media has hyped up Carter all off-season. But it’s due to the fact that he’s been preparing to be in the NFL his entire life.

He played 22 snaps in the preseason and certainly looks like he belongs. That said, the Giants plan to use him in many ways, much like a hybrid. They’ll line him up as an edge rusher, but also allow him to play in coverage as a linebacker.

Having this kind of freedom and a team willing to do whatever they can to get the best results is one reason to consider Carter, even at +185.

Jalon Walker (+950) at BetOnline

The former Georgia Bulldog added 61 total tackles and 6.5 sacks in his final season in college. That was enough for the Atlanta Falcons to add him with the 15th overall selection in this past NFL Draft.

Walker had one game with three sacks against Texas. So take that away, and he really only had three other games with at least one sack.

Yes, he played in the SEC. But he wasn’t as dominant as you would’ve hoped on paper.

If he only added 6.5 sacks in college, what’s the real expectation for the NFL? Maybe we’re looking at three or four sacks on the season?

Therefore, at +950, I’m not looking at Walker as a best bet for the 2026 NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year.

Mykel Williams (+1100) at BetOnline

Behind Jalon Walker on the odds board is another Georgia product in Mykel Williams. Williams was actually drafted ahead of Walker, with the No. 11 pick by the San Francisco 49ers. He finished with only five sacks and 21 total tackles after missing most of December with an injury.

That said, Williams suffered a hyper-extended knee about three weeks ago. He also wasn’t able to put together a healthy season last year for the 49ers. That’s a bit worrisome.

Mike Green (+1100) at BetOnline

Mike Green recorded 81 total tackles and 17 sacks for Marshall last year. Sure, he wasn’t going up against SEC talent every week. But he still notched at least one sack in all but three games last season for the Thundering Herd.

In fact, he notched a sack against Ohio State and Virginia Tech during the non-conference slate.

Additionally, he has been seen working with Michael McCrary. He also just bought his mom a house and called it his biggest milestone. He’s got a good head on his shoulders and obviously has some purpose. That totally matters. He’s going to work extremely hard to help the Ravens’ defense. Plus, he’s in a system where he should excel.

Green at +1100 is a very good value.

Which Defensive Player Do You Think Will Win The Rookie of the Year?

After breaking down the top candidates to win the 2026 Defensive Rookie of the Year, who do you think will break out and win the award?

Carter is probably the most sure-thing prospect on the list. But Mike Green fits very well with the Baltimore Ravens and could easily become a household favorite in the NFL.

Whoever you decide, don’t miss out on the opportunity of hitting big. Sign up with a sportsbook today and place your 2026 Defensive Rookie of the Year bets, while also unlocking the chance to earn more bonuses and promos.

*The line and/or odds on picks in this article might have moved since the content was commissioned. For updated line movements, visit BMR’s free betting odds product.