Jeremy Chinn stakes his claim for Defensive Rookie of the Year
By Dean Jones
Why Jeremy Chinn should win DROY
There are plenty of other worthwhile candidates for Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2020. But Jeremy Chinn is more deserving than most.
Firstly, he is operating as an outside linebacker for the first time in his career. Chinn was the spot opposite Shaq Thompson after a starring display in training camp and despite his lack of experience, he has been the standout performer on a second level that has improved dramatically since the Carolina Panthers finally decided to bench free-agent signing Tahir Whitehead.
Secondly, Chinn is just making plays. He has athleticism in abundance and the scary thing is he’s only going to get better with more familiarity at the position in the coming years.
The Panthers should count themselves extremely fortunate to have someone like Chinn. But it wasn’t an accident that he ended up in Carolina.
Matt Rhule’s knowledge of the college system is second to none and general manager Marty Hurney also identified the unfancied prospect as one of significant interest.
Giving up one of their eight draft picks was a bold move, but one that has already paid off in spades. The sky is the limit for Chinn moving forward and providing there is no steep drop-off in production during the remainder of the season, he should come away with a prestigious individual accolade to show for his efforts.