(Photo by Joe Sargent/Getty Images)
Rams' defensive tackle was named Defensive Player of the Year by the Associated Press over T.J. Watt. It's Donald's third time winning the award. Watt has now missed out on the honor in two consecutive years. Donald got the nomination over Watt, despite the fact that Watt had better statistics.
In 15 games, Watt led the league in sacks (15), tackles for loss (23) and quarterback hits (41). Donald finished the season tied for second with 13.5 sacks in 16 games and was tied for sixth in tackles for loss (14) and tied for fifth in quarterback hits (27).
Watt reacted on Twitter to not being named DPOY with a simple post.
Watt's brother J.J. responded as well to the news. He had more to say than T.J. though.
Donald was the only defensive player voted unanimously as All-Pro by the Associated Press and was selected as DPOY by the Pro Football Writers of America over Watt. Five out of the last seven years PFWA and the AP nominated the same player for DPOY. Make that now six out of eight.
Donald received 27 of 50 votes by the AP, while Watt had 20 votes.