In an announcement made by the Pro Football Writers of America (PFWA), Cleveland Browns defensive end Myles Garrett has been named the Defensive Player of the Year for the 2023 NFL season. The award, which recognizes outstanding performance on the defensive side of the ball, was released on the PFWA's official website.

Garrett's exceptional season saw him accumulate impressive statistics, including 42 combined tackles, 33 solo tackles, 17 tackles for loss, 14 sacks, three passes defensed, and four forced fumbles in 16 games played. His dominant presence on the field solidified his status as one of the top defensive players in the league.

This recognition marks the first time that Garrett has won the Defensive Player of the Year award from the PFWA, placing him on par with Pittsburgh Steelers' outside linebacker T.J. Watt, who also has one such accolade to his name. The two players, who were drafted in the same class and compete in the same division, are often compared due to their remarkable performances.

The PFWA's decision is in contrast to the recent recognition received by Watt, who was named the NFL Committee of 101's Defensive Player of the Year. Watt, finishing the regular season with 19.0 sacks, claimed the NFL sack crown for the third time in his career, making history as the first player to achieve this feat. His overall contributions, which included 68 combined tackles, 48 solo tackles, and 19 tackles for loss, showcased his impact on the Pittsburgh Steelers.

The announcement from the PFWA follows the unveiling of their All-Pro team, with Watt receiving recognition as an outside linebacker and special teams player Miles Killebrew making the cut. Additionally, the All-Rookie team named Joey Porter Jr. as the sole Steelers rookie to be included.

Attention now turns to the forthcoming NFL Honors event on February 8th, where the Associated Press will announce their Defensive Player of the Year. Watt, Garrett, and Dallas Cowboys linebacker Micah Parsons are the top contenders for this prestigious award. While Garrett has emerged as the PFWA's choice, the ultimate fate of the AP honor remains uncertain.

Historically, the PFWA's Defensive Player of the Year winner has often gone on to secure the AP accolade, providing a potential challenge for Watt. Nonetheless, with differing opinions from notable figures in the voting pool, including Sam Monson of Pro Football Focus and Peter King, the ultimate outcome of the AP award remains highly anticipated.

The accolades and recognition received by Garrett and Watt underscore their exceptional performances during the 2023 NFL season. As the spotlight now shifts to the AP award, football fans eagerly await the verdict on who will be crowned as the ultimate Defensive Player of the Year.