Micah Parsons Named 2021 AP Defensive Rookie of the Year

It almost feels like a formality at this point, but Micah Parsons is now officially recognized as the NFL’s top first-year defender in 2021. He took home the AP Defensive Rookie of the Year award tonight during the 2022 NFL Honors ceremony, receiving all 50 possible votes and making history as the first unanimous winner.

Parsons has already snagged nearly every recognition possible for his stellar debut, and not just those reserved for rookies. He was a First Team All-Pro, a Pro Bowl starter, and the Butkus Award winner for being the NFL’s best linebacker.

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Micah is the first Cowboys player to win the Associated Press’ Defensive Rookie of the Year since its inception in 1967. Dallas has had four offensive winners: Dak Prescott (2016), Emmitt Smith (1990), Tony Dorsett (1977), and Calvin Hill (1969).

The buzz for Parsons to win this award has been going strong since the middle of the season. In fact, he was even seen as a contender for Defensive Player of the Year. But the Steelers’ T.J. Watt took that one home.

Even if this is the last time we hear Micah Parsons’ name called tonight, it’s the final stamp on one of the greatest rookie seasons in franchise and even NFL history. But hopefully, it’s only the beginning of a legendary career.