Packers cornerback Charles Woodson will get a nice consolation prize after his team lost over the weekend.
In a mild surprise (to me, anyway), Woodson was named the Associated Press Defensive Player of the Year, winning the award over Jets cornerback Darrelle Revis.
Woodson earned 28 votes, while Revis finished second with 14 votes. Elvis Dumervil got three votes, Darren Sharper got three from voters that must not have watched many Saints games, and Jared Allen received two votes.
The debate between Woodson and Revis is one of what you value. Revis put together one of the most dominant “shutdown” cornerback seasons in memory. He routinely erased top wideouts like Deion Sanders in his prime.
Woodson’s value came from his cover skills and his versatility. His big play numbers -- nine interceptions, four forced fumbles, three touchdowns, and two sacks -- likely earned him the edge.
Revis would have earned my vote, but both men were worthy picks.
Woodson was first cornerback to win the award since Sanders in 1994, and the second Packers player ever. Reggie White won in 1998.