Terrion Arnold tabbed as an early favorite for Defensive Rookie of the Year

The Detroit Lions did well to land Alabama cornerback Terrion Arnold with the 24th overall pick in the 2024 draft, and the move is easily being named one of the biggest steals of the first round.

Getting the No. 1 cornerback in this draft class for a lot of analysts at No. 24 was quite a steal. In a recap of the draft (subscription required), ESPN draft analyst Jordan Reid lauded the Lions getting Arnold where they did.

"Getting the top-ranked corner on my board at No. 24 was a huge steal for Detroit. For the second consecutive year, an Alabama defensive back somehow fell to the Lions. Last year, GM Brad Holmes was aggressive in adding safety Brian Branch, who fell further than expected. The secondary of Aaron Glenn's defense was a clear weak point on the roster, but the Lions have attacked that shortcoming this offseason. Arnold -- who had five interceptions last season -- will be an immediate starter opposite Carlton Davis III."

Terrion Arnold named an early favorite to win Defensive Rookie of the Year

In the same post-draft piece, ESPN draft analyst Matt Miller was asked to name his early favorite to win the Defensive Rookie of the Year. Miller wasted no time in making Arnold his pick.

"The Lions can get after the quarterback and create opportunities for the defensive backs to make plays. Arnold will reap the benefits of that pass rush with his ball-hawking skills that allowed him to grab five interceptions at Alabama last season."

The Lions last Defensive Rookie of the Year was Ndamukong Suh in 2010. Al "Bubba" Baker (1978) and Lem Barney (1967) are the other winners of the award in franchise history. Aidan Hutchinson finished second in Defensive Rookie of the Year voting in 2022, losing to Jets' cornerback Sauce Gardner. Arnold has a real chance to win the award, though it's naturally challenging to do so as a cornerback.