Aidan Hutchinson may yet win NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year, though Jets cornerback Sauce Gardner remains the favorite.
For now, Hutchinson has been named Pepsi Zero Sugar Rookie of the Year. He was chosen in a fan vote over Gardner and Seahawks cornerback Tariq Woolen.
In a different season, Hutchinson might have been the best defensive rookie in the NFL. The second overall pick lived up to every bit of the hype coming out of Michigan with one of the best seasons by any defensive lineman in NFL history.
Not only did he lead all rookies with 9.5 sacks, Hutchinson joined Hall of Famer Richard Dent as the second defensive lineman ever to record at least 7.5 sacks, three interceptions and two fumble recoveries in a single season.
But Gardner, the fourth overall pick, was even better. The Detroit native was a season-long force for the Jets and quite arguably the best cornerback in the NFL, leading the league with a ridiculous 20 passes defended.
Barring a surprise, Gardner will take home AP Defensive Rookie of the Year honors at the NFL awards show Thursday night. But Hutchinson's fan-voted award is a good consolation prize.
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