Steelers S Troy Polamalu Named 2010 AP Defensive Player of the Year

Pittsburgh Steelers safety Troy Polamalu has been named the 2010 AP Defensive Player of the Year

In 14 games in 2010, Polamalu totaled 63 tackles, 1 quarterback sack, and tied a career-high with 7 interceptions, which he returned for a career-high 101 yards and a second pick-six of his impressive career.

Polamalu is the fifth safety to win the award, and the third in the last eight seasons. Other safeties to win the award are Ed Reed (Baltimore Ravens, 2004) and Bob Sandesr (Indianapolis Colts, 2007),as well as Kenny Easley (Seattle Seahawks, 1984) and Dick Anderson (Miami Dolphins, 1972).

Polamalu received 17 of the 50 votes, with Green Bay Packers linebacker Clay Matthews finishing second in balloting with 15. Polamalu's teammate, linebacker James Harrison, received 8 votes, with Chicago Bears defensive end Julius Peppers appearing on six ballots.

Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher (2), and Ravens safety Ed Reed and defensive tackle Haloti Ngata receiving one vote each.

Polamalu may also be a candidate for Comeback Player of the Year after being limited to five games in 2009.