Defensive Rookie of the Year: Carson Schwesinger

Cleveland Browns linebacker Carson Schwesinger has been named the Defensive Rookie of the Year, as announced at the NFL Honors. Schwesinger secured 40 out of 50 first-place votes, surpassing competitors such as Seahawks defensive back Nick Emmanwori and Falcons defensive end James Pearce Jr. He is the first Browns player to win this award since Chip Banks in 1982 and is notable for being only the fifth non-first round pick in the past 40 years to achieve this honor.

Selected in the second round, Schwesinger served as the defensive signal caller for the Browns, playing a key role in their defensive success. He concluded the 2025 season with 146 tackles, 2.5 sacks, 11 tackles for loss, nine quarterback hits, two interceptions, and three passes defensed. Schwesinger led all rookies in total tackles and tackles for loss, and he was tied for second in interceptions. He achieved double-digit tackles in seven games, including