The 2019 college football regular season is behind us, and after grading every player on every play in every game, we can now look back and assign some superlatives from the season. Here's a look at the best player in 24 different defensive categories, from best pass-rushers to best defensive backs against every type of throw and just about everything in between.
Highest overall grade on defense: Chase Young, DE, Ohio State
Young was the best college football player when he was on the field in 2019, affecting opposing team's game plans before they even kicked off. He led all players in overall grade and set Pro Football Focus records for overall and pass-rushing grade from a defensive player with his incredible season for the Buckeyes.
Highest coverage grade: Amik Robertson, CB, Louisiana Tech
Locking down receivers in his coverage, Robertson was the best cover corner in the nation in 2019. He was targeted 78 times this season, allowing just 41 receptions (52.6%) while forcing 19 incompletions himself. His 24.4% forced incompletion percentage ranked in the top 10 among qualified cornerbacks, and he finished the season by allowing a passer rating of just 53.6 on throws into his primary coverage.