In this episode of Saturday vs Sunday, Jon Barban and Geoff Dover dive into one of the most wide-open award races in recent NFL memory — Defensive Rookie of the Year (DROY). With a 2025 draft class loaded with elite defensive talent, especially on the line, this year’s DROY competition is more unpredictable than ever.We kick things off with Abdul Carter, the betting favorite at +250, who headlines a retooled Giants defense. With Dexter Lawrence and Brian Burns up front, Carter could feast on one-on-one matchups and rack up high snap counts thanks to an offense likely to generate frequent three-and-outs. But does a high-volume stat line automatically make him a lock?Next, we turn to Travis Hunter, the rare two-way threat drafted by Jacksonville. He’s listed at +1000 for both offensive and defensive rookie of the year — an unheard-of situation. The guys debate whether the Jaguars will focus him more on defense and how that split duty might impact his production — or give him a unique edge.Then there’s Jahdae Barron, Jon’s sleeper pick from Texas now on the Broncos. Playing across from Patrick Surtain, Barron could get targeted often — and in doing so, rack up enough picks, pass breakups, and big moments to steal the award. At +2200, he might be the best value pick on the board.The discussion continues with names like Jalen Walker and James Pierce on the Falcons, both potentially feasting in a weak NFC South. The guys also break down high-upside players like Michael Williams in San Francisco, Mason Graham in Cleveland, Mike Green and Malachi Starks on Baltimore’s stacked defense, and Walter Nolan with the Cardinals.Jon and Jeff emphasize the importance of situation over pure talent — how snap count, defensive scheme, team record, and divisional opponents can make or break a rookie’s stat line. They also talk about historical trends and why edge rushers have become the “quarterbacks” of the DROY race in recent years.Finally, they raise a critical betting point: compared to the offensive rookie race, the odds in this market are tighter and less rewarding. So, who’s really worth the gamble?From high-floor favorites to high-ceiling sleepers, this episode gives you a complete breakdown of every serious DROY contender — and a few long shots who just might shock the league.

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