In today's NFL, DPOY buzz tends to go toward sack leaders and shutdown corners -- but Lavonte David, a linebacker, should be in this conversation in 2020. 2006-07 Marcus Camby, Denver Is any QB higher than Malik Willis? 1 / 38. With the ease of calling the play for No. The one-per-game interception rate Diggs started the season with hasn't quite kept up, but he still leads the NFL in picks (nine), and that's the main reason for Diggs' candidacy. Garrett became the Browns' all-time leader in single-season sacks in a Week 14 win over the Ravens, further beefing up his candidacy by forcing a fumble on the sack that gave him the record and returning it for a touchdown. As T.J. McConnell enters the Top 5, Hall of Famer Sidney Moncrief talks top defenders - from his era and now - in this week's ranking of the best defensive players. In edging out Ben Simmons and Draymond Green, Utah's star center becomes the fourth player to win the award at least three times. 1984-85 Mark Eaton, Utah Gobert is arguably the best paint protector in the entire NBA as he serves as the anchor for one of the NBA's most dominant defenses. The Bengals beat the Steelers 41-10. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & resort (KS). He always just seems to be in a different gear. 2008-09 Dwight Howard, Orlando No interior defensive lineman causes opponents to structure their game plan around blocking them more than Donald does. Joe Greene, the man who is the definition of a Steelers defensive player, completely agrees. That said, if the linebacker fails to Given the fact that many of the league's other top defenders -- guys like Rudy Gobert, Anthony Davis, and Antetokounmpo -- are largely lauded for their ability as help defenders, and aren't typically tasked with locking up perimeter players, the argument could also be made that Simmons is the league's best perimeter defender. Safeties tend to have a bit of an advantage coming over the top, but Byard's interceptions haven't simply come by playing center field. Heres a look at the three finalists for the leagues best defensive player. The former Jazz now Timberwolves big man won Defensive Player of the Year in 2018, 2019 and 2021. selected NBA All-Defensive First Team for the sixth consecutive season and earned his third All-Star selection. Youve now completed your Big Board, but if you want to save it youll need to become a TDN Premium member. Carter and Davis ultimately rotated in and out, teaming up for the Bulldogs in 2021 to provide a one-two punch on the defensive interior that proved devastating for opposing offenses. NBA Finals Most Valuable Player. I'm just so motivated. However, the players listed here have separated themselves from the pack over the course of the season, either because of their prowess on the perimeter, their ability to protect the paint, or a combination of both.