Can Rolando McClain Or Lamarr Houston Win Defensive ROY?

During the 2010 NFL Draft the Oakland Raiders drafted a couple of defensive stalwarts in the first two rounds.  Both players played a big role on very strong defensive units in Alabama and Texas.  Both will get a lot of playing time in their rookie campaigns.  I know they have the ability to put up some impressive numbers in their first seasons as a pro.  This led me to thinking whether or not one of these men can win Defensive Rookie of the Year.

ROLANDO MCCLAIN, MLB

The Raiders drafted Rolando McClain to be the heart and soul of their defense.  He has all the tools to be just that.  In college he was looked at as a coach on the field.  Coming from Nick Sabans program you know he is as NFL ready as it gets.  Not only does he have the size, speed, and strength to be great, but he also has the cerebral part going for him. 

He will be the starting MLB this season.  He will have a lot of opportunities to put up an impressive stat sheet this year.  The Raiders' run defense will get tested until they prove they can stop the run, which has been the achilles heel of the defense for a few years.  I can see McClain leading the team in tackles with about 135 as well as having a handful of forced/recovered fumbles, a few INTs, and a few sacks.  Who knows? 

Lamarr Houston, DE/DT

In the second round of the draft the Raiders traded back a few spots and still got the player they were targeting in DT Lamarr Houston.  After the draft Tom Cable said that Houston will move to DE.  He played DE for two seasons at Texas before moving inside last year.  Bottom line is he is very versatile and can play any position along the defensive line.  If the Raiders use him right, he too can have an impressive rookie year.

At the first mini camps he showed his non-stop motor and tenacity.  He wasted no time getting in training camp scuffles with veterans Rock Cartwright and Langston Walker who stands 6'8" 365 lbs.  He is one of those guys that plays snap to whistle, and then some.  He has rare athleticism for a 300+ pounder.  He will be a nightmare for TEs when he lines up wide at DE.  Most guards are going to have trouble with his quickness.  If he gets his opportunities he could tally a lot of sacks, forced fumbles, and tackles for loss.  Lamarr Houston just might be the surprise of the 2010 NFL Draft.  We'll soon find out.

If the Oakland Raiders defense improves as expected, the two rookies will get even more credit and recognition during their first years as pros.  The competition will be tough with guys like Ndamukong Suh, Gerald McCoy, Eric Berry, and Sergio Kindle but with a solid rookie year and an improved team, both McClain and Houston have a decent shot at winning the Defensive ROY.