Second-year LB Kuechly AP's top defensive player
NEW YORK (AP) Luke Kuechly has been voted The Associated Press NFL Defensive Player of the Year, adding the honor to his top defensive rookie award of 2012.
Carolina's All-Pro linebacker received 19 votes from a nationwide panel of 50 media members who regularly cover the league in balloting announced Saturday night. He beat out Indianapolis All-Pro linebacker Robert Mathis, who earned 11 1/2 votes.
Kuechly was credited with 96 tackles for a defense that allowed 241 points, fewer than any team except NFC champion Seattle. He also had four interceptions, two sacks, eight passes defensed, and was a presence from sideline to sideline on the NFL's No. 2 unit.
Two Seahawks All-Pros also drew support in the voting: safety Earl Thomas (7 1/2 votes) and cornerback Richard Sherman (4).
---
AP NFL website: www.pro32.ap.org
-
NFL to play two Christmas Day 2024 games — on a Wednesday
2024 New York Giants 7-round mock draft: New QB in play — if available
Jayden Daniels, Malik Nabers shine at LSU's Pro Day
-
Jim Harbaugh fulfills his dream, living in RV in initial months after Chargers move
LB Jadeveon Clowney reportedly signs two-year deal with Panthers
Cowboys, Dak Prescott reportedly have understanding that QB won't be extended
-
NFL Draft QB analysis: Joel Klatt, Daniel Jeremiah debate top passers
49ers' Jed York calls Brock Purdy's upcoming extension a 'good problem'
2024 Commanders 7-round mock draft: Yes, they're taking a QB — but that's just the start
-
NFL to play two Christmas Day 2024 games — on a Wednesday
2024 New York Giants 7-round mock draft: New QB in play — if available
Jayden Daniels, Malik Nabers shine at LSU's Pro Day
-
Jim Harbaugh fulfills his dream, living in RV in initial months after Chargers move
LB Jadeveon Clowney reportedly signs two-year deal with Panthers
Cowboys, Dak Prescott reportedly have understanding that QB won't be extended
-
NFL Draft QB analysis: Joel Klatt, Daniel Jeremiah debate top passers
49ers' Jed York calls Brock Purdy's upcoming extension a 'good problem'
2024 Commanders 7-round mock draft: Yes, they're taking a QB — but that's just the start