Looking back at the 2019 season, when people discussed the Defensive Player of the Year, names like Los Angeles Rams' Defensive Tackle Aaron Donald, New England Patriots' Cornerback Gilmore, Arizona Cardinals' Defensive End Chandler Jones, and Pittsburgh Steelers' Defensive End TJ Watt easily popped into mind.
From this, it is clear that in an era where passing is king, the role of the defensive line continues to dominate, while the roles of cornerbacks, linebackers, and safeties are diminished, just as the value of tight ends and running backs is vastly underestimated. This is a common phenomenon and a structural outcome.
So, after the era of JJ Watt and Aaron Donald taking turns dominating the league, who can continue the momentum?
For this, Gilmore boldly spoke to the media without fear.
