NFL season predictions and award winners for 2014-15
By Josh Sanchez
Defensive Player of the Year
Allen: Justin Houston, Kansas City Chiefs. Houston has been terrific so far in his NFL career and he is just scratching the surface of what he is capable of. An all-around OLB, Houston could very well lead the league in sacks this season.
Sanchez: Lavonte David, Tampa Bay Buccaneers. It has become a trendy pick, but I like it. Buccaneers head coach Lovie Smith said himself that he sees some Derrick Brooks qualities in Lavonte David, so that is all you need to know. With a beast like Gerald McCoy wreaking havoc up front, David is going to have plenty of opportunities to use his elite instincts to make big plays all season long.
Dyce: Luke Kuechly, Carolina Panthers. Not only did Kuechly finish fourth in tackles, he had an impressive four interceptions as well. In a tough division like his with some high-powered offenses, the defenses will be called on to make stops a lot. Kuechly will get that chance in the NFC South.
Jorgensen: DeMarcus Ware, Denver Broncos. His impact on the Broncos defense will be very noticeable all year, as he returns to top form.
Hill: David. This is a bold choice, but Lovie Smith transformed Derrick Brooks into a Hall of Famer, moved on to coach Brian Urlacher and is now in Tampa Bay with Lavonte David. It’s dot connecting at it’s finest, but dots are no doubt there.