What happened: Zakee Wheatley has held opposing passers to a 75.7 passer rating allowed across at least 100 coverage snaps this season. That efficiency mark ranks third among all NFL rookie defensive backs in 2026. Through seven games, Wheatley has totaled 27 tackles and one interception.
Why it matters: Wheatley topped PFF's rookie defensive grade table in October and entered Week 10 with a 90.2 grade, ranking second among all NFL safeties. Drafted 151st overall out of Penn State, the rookie has rapidly solidified backend coverage. The efficiency mark limits big-play vulnerability against high-volume passing attacks.
By the numbers: 27 tackles and 1 interception in 2026 through 7 games; 75.7 passer rating allowed on 100+ coverage snaps.
What to watch: Wheatley looks to sustain his coverage metrics as defensive snap counts increase down the second-half stretch of the regular season.