The Heisman Trophy was first awarded all the way back in 1935. Since then, an explosive defensive back named Charles Woodson remains the only defensive player to win the award. That’s right – in 81 years, only one guy took home the hardware playing defense.
While the notion seems to have gained traction in the last several seasons, it seems like little more than a novelty. It’s hip to find the next potential defensive Heisman contender, no? Look back to 2009. Nebraska’s defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh was brilliantly dominant. Though many thought he deserved the award, voters ultimately elected Alabama running back Mark Ingram for the honors.