Behind the Numbers: Making the case for Darius Leonard as DPOY (So far)

Those outside of Indianapolis may not recognize Darius Leonard but he has quietly been one of the best defensive players in the NFL this season. Leonard ranks among the top with notable names such as Dolphins linebacker Kiko Alonso and Eagles linebacker Jordan Hicks. He's been a pleasant surprise as he's led a much improved Colts defense to being around the middle of the pack in total defensive efficiency.

Darius Leonard didn't have high expectations coming out of South Carolina State. Though drafted in the second round, many questioned why he was drafted as high as he was. After playing a half of a season in the NFL, the Colts organization can officially consider the pick a steal. In his final two seasons with South Carolina State, Leonard totaled 225 tackles, 10 sacks, and 4 interceptions. While being vastly effective, playing in the FCS diminished his value.

This season has the potential to be one of his best seasons ever as a player. What makes it all the more impressive is that he's a rookie. Through nine games he's lead the league in total tackles with 88. Of total team tackles Leonard has provided a stellar 15 percent of them. The next closest player defensively on the Colts, Anthony Walker, has accounted for 9 percent of tackles. Kiko Alonso, who is ranked second in the NFL in tackles (76), has accounted for 13 percent of his team's tackles, respectively. Third, Cardinals safety Budda Baker (72), has accounted for 12 percent. Leonard has also recorded four sacks compared to Alonso's zero. Each have forced three fumbles. Alonso, however, has deflected six passes and intercepted two passes, categories in which Leonard hasn't produced.

While statistically Leonard has been defensive player of the year worthy, he's made a major impact on the field from a personality stand point. The Colts defense, which has struggled through previous years, finally has a leader. The Colts ranked 27th in defensive efficiency in 2017 and 29th in 2016. Ever since head coach Frank Reich and defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus have taken reigns of the coaching staff, defensively efficiency has shot up to rank 14. Leonard has been a huge part of this process as he's been the sole leader of the defense. There's no question Leonard deserves defensive rookie of the year, pro-bowl, and all-pro selections. With the level of play he's provided thus far, it's not outlandish to think defensive player of the year. Averaging 11 tackles per game, he's on track to reach numbers in the 170's. The last rookie to produce such numbers was Luke Kuechly in 2013 when he totaled 165 tackles. Kuechly went on to win defensive player of the year in his second season with the Panthers.

Hopefully in Leonard's case he garners more eyes to watch his play. He's constantly creating havoc whether he's defending passes, rushing the quarterback, or chasing down a player from the other side of the field. His motor, leadership, knowledge of the game, and prowess are similar to that of all-time greats. There's no reason Leonard shouldn't be selected to an all-pro team. Barring injury, I believe he deserves much more than that. If he continues producing the way he has, I believe he'll find himself hoisting the Defensive Player of the Year award.

Photo credits: 1070 the Fan (ESPN) - Michael Hickey: Getty Images

YouTube credits: Indianapolis Colts

Statistics gathered from: Footballoutsiders.com, NFL.com, Colts.com, Herosports.com