The accolade for the NFL Defensive Player of the Year is presented by a selected media panel, celebrating outstanding performances on the field. Here’s the chronological list of recipients from recent years, showcasing the exceptional talent that has defined each season:

In 2024, the award went to Patrick Surtain II from the Denver Broncos, a cornerback who demonstrated remarkable defensive skills throughout the season. The previous year, in 2023, Myles Garrett of the Cleveland Browns earned the title, recognized for his dominance as a defensive end.

The year before that, in 2022, Nick Bosa of the San Francisco 49ers took home the honor. The 2021 winner was T.J. Watt of the Pittsburgh Steelers, known for his impact as an edge rusher. In 2020, Aaron Donald from the Los Angeles Rams added another win to his accolades as a defensive tackle, a position he has excelled in throughout his career.

In 2019, Stephon Gilmore from the New England Patriots, a cornerback, stood out among his peers, and Aaron Donald again proved his consistency by winning in 2018. Donald showcased such prowess that he secured the title for the second consecutive year.

Khalil Mack, then with the Oakland Raiders, won the award in 2016, while J.J. Watt demonstrated his legendary status with three consecutive wins from 2014 to 2016 as a defensive end. Luke Kuechly from the Carolina Panthers was honored in 2013, followed by another victory for Watt in 2012.

The award also recognized Terrell Suggs of the Baltimore Ravens in 2011, Troy Polamalu from the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2010, and Charles Woodson of the Green Bay Packers in 2009. James Harrison of the Pittsburgh Steelers received the award in 2008, adding to his team’s legacy.

The recognition goes further back with Bob Sanders from the Indianapolis Colts in 2007 and Jason Taylor representing the Miami Dolphins in 2006. Brian Urlacher captured the title in 2005, and Ed Reed, another Baltimore Raven, won it in 2004. This legacy continued with legends like Ray Lewis, Derrick Brooks, and Michael Strahan, who dominated their positions in their respective eras.

In the earlier years of this honor, recipients included Reggie White, Bruce Smith, and Deion Sanders, who were known for their remarkable defensive prowess. This award has a rich history, celebrating the game’s finest defensive talents from its inception in 1980 to the current era.