The race for the 2026 NFL Defensive Player of the Year is already heating up, and the odds paint a familiar picture: it’s a pass rusher’s world. With eight of the last ten winners notching at least 11 sacks, the edge rushers are once again leading the charge.

Topping the board is Cleveland Browns superstar Myles Garrett, fresh off a historic season where he shattered the single-season sack record and secured his second DPOY trophy. As the betting favorite, all eyes will be on him to see if he can achieve a rare repeat performance.

Hot on his heels is New York Giants standout Brian Burns. Coming off a dominant 16.5-sack campaign, Burns proved he’s among the league's elite. With a new coaching staff in New York and playoff aspirations, a fast start could see his odds skyrocket, making him a compelling early-season value pick.

History offers some intriguing context for this award. While linebackers have historically dominated the honor, the recent trend has heavily favored the pass rush. Furthermore, team success isn't always a prerequisite—five of the last ten winners came from defenses ranked outside the top ten, proving individual brilliance can still steal the show.

As the 2026 season approaches, the battle for defensive supremacy promises to be fierce. Will Garrett cement his legacy with a three-peat, or will a new challenger like Burns rise to claim the crown? The pursuit of this prestigious award is officially underway.