Parsons had arguably the greatest defensive rookie debut of all time, helping to transform the Dallas defense from one of the worst to a top unit.
He recorded 13 sacks (eighth-most), 21 tackles for a loss (tied for fourth with Aaron Donald), 30 quarterback hits (tied for fourth), and 47 pressures (tied for fourth).
For all intents and purposes, this was a one-horse race. Parson was dominant all season to the point that he also had the second-best odds for Defensive Player of the Year at +200—behind T.J. Watt—when regular season betting closed.
Here is where the betting for DROY closed:
Cowboys LB Micah Parsons -10,000 As you can see, this was only a "race" in name only.
Broncos CB Patrick Surtain II +500