With the 2024/25 NFL regular season less than a month away, it’s the perfect time to explore some intriguing future betting odds and sportsbook promos. One of the most exciting markets to consider is the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year award, which offers a wealth of value and numerous compelling options.
Current Odds for NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year
- Laiatu Latu +425
- Dallas Turner +450
- Byron Murphy II +1000
- Jared Verse +1100
- Terrion Arnold +1200
- Quinyon Mitchell +1200
Laiatu Latu: The Betting Favorite
The current favorite is Indianapolis Colts rookie Laiatu Latu, who was selected 15th overall out of UCLA. His teammate, DeForest Buckner, has compared Latu’s early vibes to those of Nick Bosa during his rookie year, when Bosa won this award in 2019. Although Latu had injury issues at UCLA, if he stays healthy, he could emerge as the top defensive rookie in this year’s class.
Dallas Turner: The Best Value Bet
The third defensive player selected in this year’s draft, Minnesota Vikings linebacker Dallas Turner, is widely regarded as the best defensive talent in the draft. At +450 odds wth the bet365 NJ, Turner represents excellent value. As the season progresses, he may very well become the favorite, making this a prime opportunity to grab him at a favorable price.
Byron Murphy II: A Valuable Sleeper
The odds drop significantly after Turner, with Seattle Seahawks defensive tackle Byron Murphy II coming in at +1000. The Seahawks have brought in Mike Macdonald, who led the Baltimore Ravens defense to the top of the league in points allowed last year. Murphy II, a highly athletic defensive tackle, could play a crucial role in revitalizing the Seahawks’ defense and might disrupt opposing offenses right from the start.
Longshot Picks: Jared Verse and Cornerback Prospects
If you’re hunting for a longshot, Los Angeles Rams linebacker Jared Verse is a compelling option at +1100. Rams head coach Sean McVay has praised Verse’s ability to transcend the defense with his play and leadership. After racking up 17.0 tackles for loss and 9.0 sacks at Florida State last year, Verse could surprise many in his rookie season.
Rounding out the top six are the two highest-drafted cornerbacks of this year’s class: Terrion Arnold of the Detroit Lions and Quinyon Mitchell of the Philadelphia Eagles, both listed at +1200 with the NJDOTBET, the betMGM bonus code. While corners often struggle to win this award without a standout season—like Sauce Gardner’s recent performance—these two will be closely watched as they were drafted just two picks apart. However, given the difficulty for corners to clinch this award, it might be wise to steer clear of them for now.
The Pick: Dallas Turner
Ultimately, my pick is Dallas Turner. His potential to develop into one of the premier pass-rushing linebackers in the NFL could start this year. With his accolades as a consensus First Team All-American and SEC Defensive Player of the Year, Turner offers tremendous value at the current odds. As the season approaches, these numbers are likely to shift, so placing a bet on Turner now could be a savvy move.
