(S24) - PT 3 - Midseason Mania

[Oneski]

Richard Leaking - Defensive Rookie of the Year Candidate
The case for Richard 'Dick' Leaking as defensive rookie of the year from the Dallas Birddogs is a simple one, he is a true modern day linebacker, a three down player impacting both phases of the game. With a respectable 37 tackles in 6 games, a number that would be higher if it wasn't for the considerable young defensive talent beside him, in Guy Fields, and in front of him on the Dallas D line, he truly stands out in his contribution to the Dallas pass defence. Leaking not only leads the Birddogs in sacks currently with three, he also is joint top in passes defended, with a monsterous six pass break ups. This is joint top for all linebackers currently in the DSFL. 
As you can clearly see, Leaking is already producing in all the areas you'd look for in a young and up and coming linebacker, impacting both the run game and asserting a level of dominance as an underneath defender in the passing game and very capable blitzer. The only knock currently on Leaking would be his lack of turnovers, but given the tightly contested nature of the DSFL and the predominance of the running game, errant passes are harder to come by, and those that are, Leaking is currently doing an excellent job of breaking up. His next step should be looking to turn some of those break ups in to interceptions and to try to dislodge the ball on some of the many tackles he's involved in. If he can make those steps, there's no doubt in my mind he'll find himself in contention for the Defensive Rookie of the Year award.