Who is the most dominant defensive force in NFL history?
In short: Since 1971, the Associated Press has honored the league's most outstanding defensive performer. While most players dream of a single trophy, a select few have achieved legendary status through unanimous votes and rare double-awards, redefining what it means to dominate the gridiron.
The AP NFL Defensive Player of the Year award, established in 1971, is decided by a panel of 50 sportswriters. While many players have reached the podium, only three individuals have managed to win the award three times: Lawrence Taylor, J. J. Watt, and Aaron Donald. Among these legends, Taylor holds a unique distinction as the only player to secure the honor during his rookie season, achieved in 1981.
The award also highlights the diversity of defensive excellence. As of the conclusion of the 2024 season, linebackers have been the most successful position with seventeen wins. Defensive ends follow closely with fifteen, while defensive tackles have claimed ten. Other notable contributors include seven cornerbacks and five safeties. Reggie White remains a standout for his versatility, being the only player to win the award while playing for two different franchises: the Philadelphia Eagles in 1987 and the Green Bay Packers in 1998.
True dominance is measured by more than just individual trophies. Only two players have managed to win both the Defensive Player of the Year and the league's Most Valuable Player award in the same season. These rare feats were accomplished by defensive tackle Alan Page for the Minnesota Vikings in 1971 and linebacker Lawrence Taylor for the New York Giants in 1986. In the modern era, J. J. Watt and Myles Garrett have achieved the pinnacle of consensus, both receiving a unanimous 50 out of 50 first-place votes.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: AP NFL Defensive Player of the Year
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