Robert Mathis Recognized by NFL 101 Awards as AFC Defensive Player of the Year

Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports

Even though the 2013-14 NFL season is over, acclaim still continues to roll in for OLB – Robert Mathis and the Indianapolis Colts. Recently, Mathis was named the AFC Defensive Player of the Year, by the NFL 101 Awards. During the 2013 NFL Honors, Mathis was also given the Deacon Jones Award, for leading the league in quarterback sacks.

The 101 Awards have been taking place in Kansas City, MO since 1969. The awards are given to the top offensive player, defensive player, and head coach in each division. The winners in each category are voted on by nationwide media.

Mathis becomes the third member of the Indianapolis Colts to win this award, following former teammates DE – Dwight Freeney (2005) and S – Bob Sanders (2007). Last season, the Indianapolis Colts had two men split the AFC Coach of the Year Award, as Chuck Pagano and Bruce Arians shared the honor.