The competition for the 2025 NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year is heating up, especially with standout players like Travis Hunter, Abdul Carter, and Mike Green leading the charge. Recent trends indicate that outside pass rushers have dominated the award, with five of the last seven DROYs coming from this category. Hunter, initially seen as a top prospect, faces the challenge of balancing his dual role as a cornerback and wide receiver, which may affect his defensive output.

Abdul Carter, now with the Giants, possesses elite athleticism and a diverse skill set, but will share the spotlight with established players on the team. Meanwhile, Mike Green’s impressive performance at the Ravens during training camp could put him in a favorable position for the award. As the season unfolds, the contextual factors surrounding each player will significantly influence their chances for the DROY title.