What an abundance of choices! This year’s list of defensive Leon award-worthy players was so deep, I had to leave some qualified players out. Where’s Bradie James? How about some love for Chris Canty, who took his game to a new level this year?
Only five players could make the cut. With apologies to the rest, here are our candidates for the 2007 Defensive Leon.
The 2007 Leon Award
OLB Greg Ellis returned from a serious Achilles tendon injury to be the ideal bookend rusher in Dallas’ 3-4 scheme. Ellis finished 6th in the league with 12.5 sacks, though he played sparingly the first month.
FS Ken Hamlin closed the gaping wound in the deep center of the Dallas secondary. After years of playing strong safeties out of position in centerfield, Hamlin showed us what a true free safety looks like. He was fourth on the team with 62 tackles and snagged five interceptions. Most importantly, the secondary which bled big pass plays in ‘06 cut its TDs allowed total from 25 to 19.
CB Terence Newman returned from a frightening foot injury that threatened to end or at the very least compromise his season. His tight coverage and four interceptions earned Newman his first Pro Bowl spot.
NT Jay Ratliff went from understudy to leading man when starting NT Jason Ferguson tore a biceps muscle one quarter into the season. Ratliff not only anchored the Cowboys rush defense, but he provided a steady inside pass rush, a novelty for a nose guard. He was rewarded with a hefty contract extension.
OLB Demarcus Ware continued to progress, finishing 3rd in the NFL with 14.0 sacks. Ware has raised his sack totals every season and still has room to improve.