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5 reasons why Jamie Collins will win Defensive Player of the Year in 2016

By Connor Fulton

Jan 24, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning (18) is tackled by New England Patriots outside linebacker Jamie Collins (91) during the second half in the AFC Championship football game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 24, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning (18) is tackled by New England Patriots outside linebacker Jamie Collins (91) during the second half in the AFC Championship football game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jamie Collins Patriots
Jan 18, 2015; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots outside linebacker Jamie Collins (91) celebrates with defensive tackle Sealver Siliga (96) after an interception during the fourth quarter against the Indianapolis Colts in the AFC Championship Game at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports /

4. Excellent pass coverage and four interceptions

Part of what makes Collins such a good player is the fact that he can cover tight ends better than most linebackers. He is bulky enough to be a force against the run but also athletic and nimble enough to cover big, fast pass catchers.

32 offseason additions, 32 interesting facts

Well, Collins will showcase that coverage ability in 2016 not only by blanketing most of his assignments, but also by cashing-in on some poor quarterback decisions. Collins will pick off four passes in 2016, one in each month of the regular season. He will return one of those for a touchdown, adding icing to an already astounding stat line.

Collins’ impressive returning after interceptions will lead fans to clamor for the Patriots to try him at tight end, a thought that has already gone through this writer’s mind.

Next: 3. Tackling and lots of it

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