The votes are in.
As the 2024 NFL season draws to a close, HuddleUK reveals its award winners.
One UK fan from each of the 32 NFL franchises has voted, with some awards extremely close.
Today, we reveal the winner of HuddleUK’s Defensive Rookie of The Year.
Winner – Jared Verse [25 Votes]
Was there ever going to be another winner? Jared Verse dominated the voting for Defensive Rookie of the Year, receiving the most votes for any award.
The rookie out of Florida delivered an incredible season for the Los Angeles Rams, quelling fears about how the team would replace Aaron Donald.
According to Pro Football Focus (PFF), Verse’s regular season stats were astonishing. He earned an 86.2 PFF grade, which was the best among all rookie defenders.
He also recorded 77 pressures, ranking fourth among all defenders, and was named the seventh most valuable edge defender.
His playoff performances were equally spectacular. In a moment that could rival Tyreek Hill, Verse picked up a fumble by Sam Darnold, sprinted downfield, and leapt into the end zone.
It was a highlight that capped off one of the most memorable rookie campaigns in recent history.
Runner-Up – Quinyon Mitchell [4 Votes]
Quinyon Mitchell, selected 22nd overall in the 2024 NFL Draft, had a breakout rookie season for the Philadelphia Eagles.
Initially, there were questions about how many snaps he would see in his first year. However, Mitchell quickly proved his worth and became a cornerstone of the Eagles’ defence.
The Eagles led the league in points and yards allowed, and Mitchell’s exceptional coverage skills were a major reason for this dominance.
His ability to lock down receivers and disrupt opposing offenses made him one of the most impactful players on the team.
Third Place – Cooper DeJean [2 Votes]
Cooper DeJean, another 2024 Philadelphia Eagles draftee, also had a fantastic rookie season.
A versatile cornerback, DeJean earned a starting role by Week 6 and consistently impressed.
DeJean played a pivotal role in the Eagles’ defensive success and was instrumental in their playoff victory against the Green Bay Packers.
