Denzel Ward vs Bradley Chubb was not a debate then and certainly is not now
Before April’s draft there was extensive discussion about who the Browns should take fourth overall. Bradley Chubb or Denzel Ward. Clearly John Dorsey made the correct decision as Ward is an absolute beast. Chubb on the other hand is making less of an impact. Pro Football Focus ranks him as the 53rd overall edge defender, which is a compilation of outside linebackers and defensive ends. Chubb has 12 combined tackles and 1.5 sacks, a significant smaller impact than Ward. The argument for Chubb over Ward was based off the bookend edge rushers theory, however that only works if the secondary can carry their weight. The Browns secondary could not do that last year which made Ward the better pick. If defensive players cannot cover an edge rusher will not be able to get to the quarterback. Ward, among others, have improved the Cleveland secondary which has allowed a better pass rush. Myles Garret has five sacks, Larry Ogunjobi has three and Jamie Collins has two. Safe to say that the improved defensive backfield is to thank.Defensive Rookie of the Year comes down to Denzel Ward vs Derwin James
Derwin James is having quite the season, Pro Football Focus ranks him as the fourth best safety in the league. James has one interception, six pass defenses and three sacks. James has been fantastic for the Chargers and it appears they have one of the best defenders in the league for years to come. What it does come down to is overall impact on the game from their respective positions. Is Ward’s impact at cornerback greater than James’ at safety? At this point in can be argued that it is and the DROY Award should be his. Even if Ward does not end up winning the award at the end of the season, the Browns definitely have a defensive cornerstone to build upon in the future.Discover more from This Is Believeland
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