Each and every year, more people play fantasy football with IDP (Individual Defensive Players), and it will be one of the standards before too long. Adding another dimension to fantasy football is always fun, and it adds another variable that players need to study. In dynasty leagues, getting these players late in rookie drafts are key. This season was no exception. Here are the top 10 IDP rookies from 2013.
10. Ezekiel Ansah, Detroit Lions - 30 total tackles and eight sacks
9. Kenny Vaccaro, New Orleans Saints - 79 total tackles, one sack and one interception
8. Sheldon Richardson, New York Jets - 72 total tackles and three and a half sacks
7. Desmond Trufant, Atlanta Falcons - 67 total tackles and two interceptions
6. Tyrann Mathieu, Arizona Cardinals - 68 total tackles, one sack and two interceptions
5. Paul Worrilow, Atlanta Falcons - 127 total tackles and two sacks
4. Johnathan Cyprien, Jacksonville Jaguars - 102 total tackles, one sack and one interception
3. Eric Reid, San Francisco 49ers - 86 total tackles and four interceptions
2. Alec Ogletree, St. Louis Rams - 118 total tackles, one and a half sacks and one interception
1. Kiko Alonso, Buffalo Bills - 159 total tackles, two sacks and four interceptions
Defensive Lineman IDP Rookie of the Year
Sheldon Richardson. Richardson was not seen as a “need” for the Jets at 3-4 defensive end, but was one of the best players at his position as a rookie. As far as IDP goes, 72 total tackles for a defensive lineman is incredible, and his sack total will increase as time goes on.
Defensive Back IDP Rookie of the Year
Eric Reid. Reid did not start one game, but his presence was felt all over the field for the Niners. Four interceptions and over 80 tackles is as good as it gets for a defensive back in IDP formats, and Reid helped his fantasy owners immensely this season.
IDP Rookie of the Year
Kiko Alonso. Alonso is the leader of the Bills defense, and the will be the catalyst for a decade in Buffalo. With just under 10 total tackles per game, Alonso is a force at linebacker in IDP formats, and is a must start for next season, and will be one of the top linebackers drafted.