Panthers linebacker/defensive back Jeremy Chinn has been named the NFL’s Defensive Rookie of the Month for October. During those four games, Chinn posted 30 tackles, one pick and four pass breakups.
Chinn has impressed with his range and versatility all season, making stops from several different positions. While he’s listed as a linebacker, he’s played all over the field. Lately, he’s been coming on in coverage, which had been an issue early in the season.
There are still areas for Chinn to improve. For one thing, he’s missed 10 tackles already, almost 15% of his attempts. This is nitpicking, though. For Chinn to be playing at this level with only seven games of experience is pretty astounding stuff.
Several other defenders should be in the running for the award, but if Chinn can maintain this for the entire season he should at least be in the conversation for Defensive Rookie of the Year.
