New York Jets linebacker Jonathan Vilma was named the NFL's Defensive Rookie of the Year today by the Associated Press. Vilma started at middle linebacker for a tough New York defense and helped lead the Jets to a 10-6 season and a wild card berth in the tough AFC.

Vilma started the season as the backup to veteran Sam Cowart but Cowart was felled by a knee injury in the season's second week. Vilma took over at middle linebacker. In addition to making the regular plays at the position, Vilma also had to call the team's defensive signals.

Vilma's defensive coordinator, Donnie Henderson was proud of his star rookie's achievement. 'It's something that he can cherish a long time,' Henderson said. 'He's been with a defense that has allowed him to make some plays, he's capitalized on what we've asked him to do.'

Vilma finished the season with 116 tackles, two sacks, three interceptions, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery.

To Vilma, the respect and recognition of his peers was paramount. 'I'm definitely excited about whoever is taking notice of how I play,' Vilma said. 'Roman Phifer of the Patriots told me he likes the way I play. That means a lot being a rookie. Kevin Faulk came up to me, said he liked the way I played. Whenever veterans come up to you and tell you that, it's always very flattering and makes you feel good. If they say I'm doing good then I must be doing something right.'

Houston Texans cornerback Dunta Robinson finished second in the voting followed by linebacker D.J. Williams of the Broncos. Vilma ended up with 21 of the 48 possible votes. Robinson finished with 12 votes.