This has been mentioned around these parts of the internet before, but it is worth revisiting: if Dallas Cowboys first-round linebacker Micah Parsons had not delivered one of the most impressive rookie seasons in recent memory, there would have been a decent chance for the New England Patriots’ Christian Barmore to be named NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year.
Barmore, after all, had a quality season of his own. While not making the same consistent big plays as Parsons in Dallas, he proved himself a disruptive member of New England’s defensive line — one who showcased his tremendous potential on a weekly basis.