After helping the Packers reach the playoffs this season, cornerback Charles Woodson was voted the AP’s Defensive Player of the Year.
From FOXSports.com:
The versatile Woodson tied for the league lead with nine interceptions, returning three for touchdowns, and was a key to the Packers’ turnaround on defense. His role in Green Bay’s ranking second in overall defense, first in interceptions (30), takeaways (40) and turnover margin (plus-24) earned Woodson 28 votes Tuesday from a nationwide panel of 50 sports writers and broadcasters who cover the NFL.
“It’s a great honor,” Woodson said in a telephone interview Tuesday. “I felt like I put a lot into the game, mentally and physically – your body’s always beat up – and it’s great to be recognized.”
It’s surprising that his votes doubled that of the Jets’ Darrelle Revis, who emerged this season as a true lockdown corner. That said, Woodson had to make the transition from being a press corner in a 4-3 to a zone player in Dom Capers’ new 3-4 defense. Considering he’s 33, had to learn a new scheme and still dominated speaks to his talent.
Talk about a player that has lived up to the hype. People forget he won a Heisman Trophy, which has often been the kiss of death for players in the NFL. But Woodson continues to be a top-notch defender and at a position, no less, that requires a player to keep up his speed, agility and burst. What Woodson has been able to accomplish in his career is impressive.
Photo from fOTOGLIF
