Former Alabama lineman named finalist for NFL Defensive Player of Year

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Former Alabama defensive lineman Will Anderson Jr. has officially been named as a finalist for the NFL's Defensive Player of the Year award.

Anderson was nothing short of elite throughout the 2025 campaign, as the star pass rusher recorded 54 total tackles, three forced fumbles, 2 fumble recoveries, a touchdown and an extremely impressive 12 sacks. Anderson recorded 20 tackles for a loss this season as well, as the former Alabama star has continued to improve on a weekly basis following his time with the Tide in Tuscaloosa.

Anderson was named a finalist for the honor alongside Aidan Hutchinson, Nik Bonitto, Myles Garrett and Micah Parsons, as the star playmaker will more than likely have an excellent chance at winning the award.

Anderson spent all three years of his collegiate career at Alabama. The talented big man was a crucial member of the Tide’s defensive unit from 2020-22, as Anderson continues to thrive and turn heads at the professional level following an excellent career in Tuscaloosa.

Anderson was widely regarded as one of the best defensive players in the entire NFL throughout 2025, as the former Crimson Tide star will now look to add yet another accolade to his already impressive résumé.

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This article originally appeared on Roll Tide Wire: Texans' Will Anderson Jr. named NFL Defensive Player of Year finalist

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