Fansided

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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Aug 4, 2014; Cortland, NY, USA; New York Jets free safety Calvin Pryor (25) walks out to the field prior to the start of training camp at SUNY Cortland. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 4, 2014; Cortland, NY, USA; New York Jets free safety Calvin Pryor (25) walks out to the field prior to the start of training camp at SUNY Cortland. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports /

Calvin Pryor, New York Jets safety

Pryor is the lone defensive back to make the cut, and deservedly so given his playing style and intimidating nickname — the Louisville Slugger. Cool, right?

Jets coach Rex Ryan was impressed enough with Pryor to add him to the back end of his typically stout defense. Ryan sees Pryor as his enforcer, a safety who will lay the lumber and make any receiver wary about coming over the middle of the field.

Pryor’s humping style reminds of two safeties: former Colt Bob Sanders and current Seahawk Kam Chancellor. The former couldn’t stay on the field, but was one of the best when on it. Chancellor is the gatekeeper of a Super Bowl champion squad. If Pryor can produce — and, unlike Sanders, remain healthy — he will be mentioned in the same breath as both players.

Defensive backs typically don’t get the recognition as those in the front seven, but Pryor is talented enough to make it a competition worth watching.

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