Yesterday, I posted a top 5 list of offensive rookies who have the best chance of being this year's Adrian Peterson. As far as offensive rookies went last year, Peterson was the cream of the crop. However, there could be some real arguments about the overall rookie of the year. 49ers Linebacker Patrick Willis won the 2007 Defensive Rookie of the Year and like Peterson, made it to the Pro Bowl. All he did was lead the league with a ridiculous 174 tackles. Any team who went defense this draft would love to find the next Patrick Willis. These five guys have the best shot at doing just that

5) Vernon Gholston, DE, New York Jets
The Jets and Dolphins have had some great battles over the years, and now fans of both teams can look forward to more great battles for a long time. Vernon Gholston was the only player to record a sack when lined up against #1 pick Jake Long. Long, now with the Dolphins, will be seeing Gholston at least twice a year as they battle in the AFC East. Gholston was the 2007 Big Ten D-Lineman of the year, and hopes to bring that success to New York this year.



4) Derrick Harvey, DE, Jacksonville Jaguars
After the Giants won Super Bowl XLII with an intense pass rush which included strength and, more importantly, speed on the ends, many teams decided to adopt that blueprint. Derrick Harvey immediately filled the Jaguars’ biggest need, a pass rushing DE. Equipped with enormous speed and a great first step, the Jags are hoping Harvey can emulate other Speed DEs like Osi Umenyiora and Dwight Freeney. Already loaded with one of the elite defenses in the league, Harvey and the Jaguars might be poised to take the AFC this year.

3) Jerod Mayo, LB, New England Patriots
Mayo’s placement at #3 is based both on his amazing skill and his great situation. The Patriots got a steal from the Niners by swapping their 07 1st Rounder for the 49ers 08 1st Rounder, which turned out to be a 28 (Joe Staley) for a 10. Mayo will be able to immediately enter the rotation and contribute. Better yet, Mayo will learn from the best Linebacker Core in the NFL.

2) Chris Long, DE, St. Louis Rams
The 2nd overall selection in the draft, Chris Long hopes to make his mark early on this season. The son of legend Howie Long, Chris was the consensus top defensive prospect in this years draft. Long put up close to 80 tackles and 14 sacks in only 13 games in his senior year at Virginia. Rams coach Scott Linehan already placed the 2007 ACC Defensive Player of the Year in the starting lineup, solidifying a young D-Line anchored by last years 1st rounder, Adam Carriker.

1) Glenn Dorsey, DT, Kansas City Chiefs
The Chiefs traded the leader of their D-Line, Jared Allen, before this years draft. Dorsey was the perfect fit for the Chiefs and immediately became the focus of the Chiefs’ Line. Dorsey dominated against the run at LSU, and was a huge part of their 2008 National Championship. Dorsey will be a premier run stopper in the league and will make an immediate impact for the Chiefs.