The NFL announced Detroit Lions defensive lineman Aidan Hutchinson as the 2022 NFL Rookie of the Year. Hutchinson led all rookies with 9.5 sacks this season and became the first rookie since 1982, when the individual sack became an official statistic, with at least nine sacks and three interceptions. He also became the fourth player since 1982 with at least nine sacks, three interceptions and two fumble recoveries in a season, joining Pro Football Hall of Famer Richard Dent (1990), Joey Porter (2002) and Otis Wilson (1985).
“There were so many talented players in this rookie class, so it’s quite an honor for me to be named the 2022 Rookie of the Year,” said Hutchinson. “Considering some of the past Rookie of the Year winners, taking home this award feels surreal, and I want to thank all the fans who believed in me and voted for me. It is amazing to see the support from fans week after week, and I am ready to start the offseason and get out there for an even better season next year.”
Hutchinson was one of six finalists nominated for the award. The other finalists were Jets cornerback Sauce Gardner, Saints wide receiver Chris Olave, Seahawks running back Kenneth Walker, Jets wide receiver Garrett Wilson and Seahawks cornerback Tariq Woolen.
The six finalists were selected for their outstanding performances throughout the 2022 NFL season. Each week, six nominees were chosen for the NFL Rookie of the Week and fans voted for the winner on NFL.com. Those results were used to help determine the finalists.
2022 NFL ROOKIE OF THE YEAR FINALISTS
PLAYER |
POSITION |
TEAM |
Sauce Gardner |
Cornerback |
New York Jets |
Aidan Hutchinson |
Defensive Lineman |
Detroit Lions |
Chris Olave |
Wide Receiver |
New Orleans Saints |
Kenneth Walker |
Running Back |
Seattle Seahawks |
Garrett Wilson |
Wide Receiver |
New York Jets |
Tariq Woolen |
Cornerback |
Seattle Seahawks |