Potential First-Time Pro Bowlers on Defense
Christian Wilkins, DT, Las Vegas Raiders
Wilkins signed a massive deal with the Raiders this offseason, making him the second-highest-paid defensive end behind Chris Jones. He’s coming off a nine-sack campaign, where he also ranked sixth in combined tackles among defensive linemen. Wilkins now gets to line up alongside Maxx Crosby, one of the league’s best outside rushers. In addition, Wilkins has started every game of the last three years, making him readily available to see his first Pro Bowl.
Boye Mafe, Edge, Seattle Seahawks
There’s no doubting Mafe’s athletic profile fits the bill to be a star. He took a major step up in year two, starting in all 16 games he played and racking up nine sacks. The biggest benefit for him is having Mike Macdonald run the defense as the Seahawks’ new head coach. Under Macdonald’s scheme, it has proven to get production out of the front four. With another year under his belt, Mafe could flash more of his playmaking ability to rise to stardom.
Foyesade Oluokun, LB, Jacksonville Jaguars
The former sixth-round pick has made a major name for himself over the past few seasons. It’s shocking to realize Oluokun has not made a Pro Bowl yet, having led the league in solo tackles in 2022 and 2023 and leading in combined tackles in 2021 and 2022. Oluokun checks all the boxes of a great linebacker, pressuring the quarterback, stopping the rush, and gluing to his defender in coverage. Now playing under Ryan Neilsen, who has propelled defenses in the past, Oluokun could be in for his biggest season thus far.
Derek Stingley Jr., CB, Houston Texans
Stingley has shown Pro Bowl-caliber play since his rookie year and is bound to earn his first nod in year three. His biggest flaw is a lingering hamstring issue that has cost him significant games over his first two seasons. If Stingley can put together a complete campaign, his shut-down skills will be on full display. His expected points added per pass attempt ranked top three in the league once he returned from injury, only behind Denzel Ward and DaRon Bland. With a defense-oriented head coach in DeMeco Ryans and playing on a potential top team in the league, Stingley will garner fans’ attention for a Pro Bowl.
Jevon Holland, S, Miami Dolphins
Everything is lined up for Holland to explode onto the scene in year four. Holland is another victim of an injury that has cost him previous Pro Bowl appearances. Playing for new defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver, he fits the scheme perfectly. Holland is a ball hawk who can play all over the field, from excellent coverage to stifling a run play. Entering a contract year, it’s the perfect time for Holland to solidify himself as a Pro Bowl safety.
