Expert prediction
NFL Defensive Player of the Year Sleeper Picks
Pick rationale
Analysis & key factors
Every year, the Defensive Player of the Year (DPOY) award features a few familiar names—Micah Parsons, Myles Garrett, and T.J. Watt sit atop the odds board again in 2025. But savvy bettors know value often comes from deeper down the board, where rising stars and bounce-back vets offer massive upside at longer odds. With new schemes, breakout potential, and defensive roles expanding, several underrated defenders could crash the DPOY race this season.
1. Will Anderson Jr. – EDGE, Houston Texans
The 2023 No. 3 overall pick started coming into his own last season, tallying 11 sacks and 16 TFLs. With veteran Danielle Hunter joining the edge rotation and DeMeco Ryans turning Houston into a top-10 defense, Anderson’s trajectory is trending elite. If the Texans win the AFC South again, Anderson’s national profile will explode.
Pick: Will Anderson Jr. to win DPOY (+1200)
2. Jalen Carter – DT, Philadelphia Eagles
Carter was nearly unblockable at times as a rookie, and he now anchors Vic Fangio’s rebuilt Eagles defense. While defensive tackles rarely win DPOY, Carter’s combination of interior pass-rush and backfield penetration gives him a unique edge—especially if Philly rebounds in 2025.
Pick: Jalen Carter to win DPOY (+2200)
3. Maxx Crosby – EDGE, Las Vegas Raiders
Crosby is a motor machine who finally gets help in the form of a stronger front and new coaching staff that plans to unleash him even more. Coming off a 14.5 sack season, he could challenge for the league lead in pressures with better team success.
Pick: Maxx Crosby to win DPOY (+1200)
4. Danielle Hunter – EDGE, Houston Texans
While Anderson gets the hype, Hunter could benefit the most. He’s coming off a 16.5 sack season and should feast in 1-on-1s opposite Anderson. A productive veteran in a contending defense, he has the stats and storyline to surprise.
Pick: Danielle Hunter to win DPOY (+2500)
5. Jared Verse – EDGE, Los Angeles Rams
Verse made an immediate impact as a rookie and is poised to make a leap in Year 2. With Aaron Donald retired, the Rams will rely on him as their lead pass-rusher—and he has the burst and power to deliver a breakout double-digit sack campaign.
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