Tuesday, January 19, 2016

Division evenly represented on PFWA All-Rookie Team


The Pro Football Writers of America released its All-Rookie Team roster Tuesday, with a member of each AFC East squad making the cut.

While no offensive players were honored, three defensive players were named, as well as one special teamer.

Here's the breakdown for each player that was selected:

Malcom Brown (DL), New England Patriots — Taken with the last pick in the first round in the 2015 draft, Brown has played in every game (starting 12) for New England this season. He's tallied as many tackles (31) as Chandler Jones, recovered two fumbles, and notched three sacks. He put forth a solid effort in his first playoff game last week, as well.

Leonard Williams (DL), New York Jets — The sixth overall pick this season was a monster along the line for Gang Green, as ProFootballFocus rated him seventh overall among 3-4 defensive ends. He tallied only three sacks and 29 tackles, but he was ranked fourth overall against the run at his position and was a constant nuisance in the backfield.

Ronald Darby (CB), Buffalo Bills — Highly debated as one of the best picks in the draft, the second-rounder made up for the fact that Buffalo had no first round selection this season, and then some. He was fourth overall in the league with 21 pass break-ups (a Bills single-season record), with 69 tackles and two interceptions along the way.

Matt Darr (P), Miami Dolphins — Miami punted A LOT this season, and Darr proved he was up for the task. After making the Dolphins roster as an undrafted free agent, he finished third in the league with a 47.6 gross punting average, a team record. He also dropped 30 punts inside the 20-yard line, good enough for eighth overall.

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