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NFL: Top 5 candidates to win Defensive Rookie of the Year

By Zack Kelberman

Aug 9, 2014; Glendale, AZ, USA; Houston Texans linebacker Jadeveon Clowney (90) against the Arizona Cardinals during a preseason game at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 9, 2014; Glendale, AZ, USA; Houston Texans linebacker Jadeveon Clowney (90) against the Arizona Cardinals during a preseason game at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jul 24, 2014; Owings Mills, MD, USA; Baltimore Ravens inside linebacker C.J. Mosley (57) makes a catch during practice at Under Armour Performance Center. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports
Jul 24, 2014; Owings Mills, MD, USA; Baltimore Ravens inside linebacker C.J. Mosley (57) makes a catch during practice at Under Armour Performance Center. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports /

C.J. Mosley, Baltimore Ravens linebacker

The last linebacker on the list hails from arguably the best collegiate pedigree — Alabama, where he made 29 starts, earning the 2013 Butkus Award as the nation’s top LB. He showed well enough for the Ravens to take him No. 17 overall.

Mosley’s physical attributes jump out at you: 35-inch vertical, 9-foot-1o-inch broad jump and a solid 4.63 40. The one downside is his well-documented injury history, which includes elbow, hip, and shoulder ailments. Baltimore viewed him as a safe pick, but only if he stays off the trainer’s table.

Listed as a starter on the Ravens’ depth chart, Mosley figures to be a key factor in the team’s defensive plans. As a three-down player, he should see the field enough to put him in the running for DROY — provided his body holds up, of course.

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