Will Anderson Jr. Wins Defensive Rookie of the Year

After a legendary career with the Crimson Tide, Will Anderson Jr. quickly made his mark in the NFL.

The Houston Texans EDGE was named the NFL AP Defensive Rookie of the Year on Thursday evening.

Anderson is the first former Alabama player to win defensive rookie of the year since DeMeco Ryans did so in 2006.

In his rookie campaign with the Texans, Anderson finished with 45 total tackles and seven sacks. He was selected third overall by the Texans in the 2023 NFL Draft, and his teammate CJ Stroud, who was selected second, won Offensive Rookie of the Year.

2023 NFL Awards

(Other winners will be updated)

Most Valuable Player

Coach of the Year: Kevin Stefanski, Browns head coach

Assistant Coach of the Year: Browns defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz

Comeback Player of the Year: Joe Flacco, Browns quarterback

Offensive Player of the Year: Christian McCaffery 49ers running back

Defensive Player of the Year: Browns EDGE Myles Garrett

Offensive Rookie of the Year: Texans QB C.J. Stroud

Defensive Rookie of the Year: Texans EDGE Will Anderson Jr.

Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year:

Art Rooney Sportsmanship Award:

Deacon Jones Sack Leader Award: Steelers EDGE T.J. Watt