The Arizona Cardinals used the 16th overall pick in the 2021 NFL draft to select linebacker Zaven Collins. He is expected to be a starter from Week 1.
As a result, with early odds as to who will be this year’s NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year by BetMGM, Collins is among the favorites.
Collins is listed at +1200 (bet $100 to win $1,200), tied for the fourth-longest odds for the award.
The betting favorite is linebacker Micah Parsons, drafted by the Dallas Cowboys. He is listed at +400.
Next is Miami Dolphins pass rusher Jaelan Phillips at +650, followed by Indianapolis Colts pass rusher Kwity Paye and Washington Football Team linebacker Jamin Davis, both at +900.
Collins and Denver Broncos cornerback Patrick Surtain are both at +1200.
Collins could have a real shot. If he is healthy, he likely will play almost every snap on defense for the Cardinals in a defensive scheme that puts inside linebackers in position to make plays.
In 2019, Jordan Hicks, whom Collins replaces in the lineup, had 150 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks, three interceptions, six pass breakups, two forced fumbles and a fumble recovery.
If he can fill the stat sheet that way, it will be hard to ignore.
Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services. Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage.
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