New York Jets rookie defensive lineman Sheldon Richardson, the 13th pick in this past year’s draft, has won the NFL league honor Defensive Rookie of the Year award according to the NFL’s twitter page:
Congratulations to Sheldon Richardson! 2013 Defensive Rookie of the Year! #NFLHonors
pic.twitter.com/4GYjElYmgH — NFL (@nfl) February 1, 2014
Had an opportunity to interview Sheldon Richardson courtesy of Green-Zone Radio after the Oakland Raiders game and mentioned several times about him potentially being awarded defensive rookie of the year. Richardson stayed humble as usual and showed tremendous leadership even as a rookie with his continued support of teammates Dee Milliner and Geno Smith. (Play Below)
JetNation had a chance to ask former Jets defensive “All-Pro” lineman Joe Klecko if Richardson would win the award he said, “I think he deserves it hands down.” Looks like Klecko was right. (Listen to Klecko’s prediction below):
Richardson had a terrific rookie year emerging as a force in the Jets young talented defensive front ending the year with 78 tackles, 3.5 sacks and a forced fumble while the defense ranked third in rushing years allowed.
Congratulations to Sheldon Richardson first New York Jet to win this honor since Jonathan Vilma in 2004.
You can continue to talk about Richardson’s award in our JetNation Forums.