FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. -- Atlanta Falcons veteran defensive end Dwight Freeney firmly believes teammate Vic Beasley Jr. deserves strong consideration for Defensive Player of the Year.
Beasley, named the NFC's Defensive Player of the Week on Wednesday, is tied with Super Bowl MVP Von Miller for the league lead in sacks with 13.5. Beasley also leads the league with six forced fumbles, including one he returned for a touchdown in last week's 42-14 win over the Los Angeles Rams.
"Just because of his game-changing abilities and the things that he's done,'' the seven-time Pro Bowler Freeney said of Beasley's credentials. "With sacks, I understand that's a big deal. To have him tied with a guy like Von Miller, it's a big deal. And I think guys should be rewarded for the good years that they have.
"As of right now, this defense and our team is doing probably a little better than the Broncos at this point. I think that speaks volumes to some of the playmaking ability that Vic's done this year. And I think it would be great to see his name be mentioned.''
Miller is certain to earn consideration coming off the Super Bowl. Other logical candidates include Oakland Raiders defensive end/linebacker Khalil Mack, New York Giants safety Landon Collins, Los Angeles Rams defensive tackle Aaron Donald, and Seattle Seahawks linebacker Bobby Wagner.
"Nothing against Von -- I think Von's a great talent and great player as well,'' Freeney said, "but I think Vic is having a special year, so having a special year should be rewarded.''
Beasley appreciated the high praise from Freeney.
"That means a lot, coming from a guy like Dwight,'' Beasley said. "He knows what it takes, the qualities and the statistics that are required. It's a blessing to hear that from him.''
Houston's J.J. Watt, who is on injured reserve with a back injury, has won the AP Defensive Player of the Year honor the past two seasons.