NFL Defensive Player of the Year Award Odds (2026-27)

The following post features NFL Defensive Player of the Year Odds (2026-27).

As the 2026 NFL season approaches, sportsbooks have released their NFL Defensive Player of the Year odds, giving bettors an early look at which defensive stars are favored to take home the award.

Read: NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year Odds

Related: NFL Offensive Player of the Year Odds

The Defensive Player of the Year market often shifts throughout the season as sack leaders emerge, turnover numbers climb, and elite defenders build momentum with standout performances.

So, how is the 2026 NFL Defensive Player of the Year race shaping up? Here’s what you need to know.

NFL Defensive Player of the Year Odds (2026-27)

Below is a table listing odds for the 2026-27 NFL Defensive Player of the Year Award. All odds were sourced on July 6, 2026. Click here for the very latest odds (via OddsChecker).

Defensive Player of the Year – Preseason Spotlights

Myles Garrett

Los Angeles Rams edge rusher Myles Garrett is the clear favorite for Defensive Player of the Year in 2026. Now with the Rams after a blockbuster move, Garrett remains one of the league’s most dominant pass rushers with elite speed, power, and a relentless motor. His ability to disrupt offenses and rack up sacks makes him a constant game-changer. If the Rams contend and Garrett posts another monster statistical season, he is well-positioned to claim his first Defensive Player of the Year award.

Micah Parsons

Green Bay Packers linebacker Micah Parsons is a top contender for Defensive Player of the Year in 2026 after returning from injury. Parsons’ rare athleticism, versatility, and explosiveness allow him to impact games as a pass rusher, run stopper, and coverage defender. In a Packers defense with high expectations, he could lead the league in sacks or tackles for loss. A healthy, dominant season would make a compelling case for Parsons to win the award as one of the NFL’s brightest defensive stars.

Maxx Crosby

Las Vegas Raiders edge rusher Maxx Crosby remains one of the league’s most consistent defensive forces heading into 2026, despite well-known rumors of him being on the trade block as the season approaches (after he was nearly dealt this offseason). Known for his high motor, toughness, and production, Crosby excels at pressuring quarterbacks and stopping the run. His leadership and durability make him a cornerstone of the Raiders’ defense. If Las Vegas improves and Crosby continues his elite sack and tackle numbers, he is a strong candidate for Defensive Player of the Year honors.

Will Anderson Jr.

Houston Texans edge rusher Will Anderson Jr. is poised for a potential Defensive Player of the Year breakout in 2026. Already a disruptive force with elite quickness and power, Anderson could take another leap in his development. His ability to affect the backfield consistently positions him as a major threat. In a Texans defense with rising expectations, a monster statistical season would put Anderson firmly in the conversation for the award.

Aidan Hutchinson

Detroit Lions edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson continues to establish himself as an elite defender in 2026. With a strong blend of size, speed, and technique, Hutchinson excels at generating pressure and making plays across the line. His impact on the Lions’ successful defense makes him a yearly contender. If Hutchinson posts career-high numbers while helping Detroit contend, he could claim Defensive Player of the Year as one of the league’s top pass rushers.

Nick Bosa

San Francisco 49ers edge rusher Nick Bosa is a perennial Defensive Player of the Year candidate in 2026. A dominant force with elite burst and hand usage, Bosa consistently disrupts offenses and racks up sacks. His presence elevates the 49ers’ front. A healthy, high-production season in a contending San Francisco defense would make a strong case for Bosa to win the award for the second time in his career.

NFL Defensive Player of the Year Award

The NFL Defensive Player of the Year Award is presented annually to the defensive player judged to have had the most outstanding regular season in the league. The award is voted on by a nationwide panel of 50 media members selected by the Associated Press, with voters submitting a weighted ballot ranking their top three choices (scored on a 5-3-1 point basis). Only regular-season performance is considered, with postseason accomplishments having no impact on the final vote.

NFL Defensive Player of the Year Winner (by Year)

Click here for NFL Defensive Player of the Year winner by year.