Ndamukong Suh was named the Pepsi Rookie of the Year on Thursday.

The Lions defensive tackle was the first defenseman to win the award in its nine years of existence.

He beat out St. Louis Rams quarterback Sam Bradford, New England Patriots cornerback Devin McCourty, Cleveland Browns cornerback Joe Haden and Tampa Bay Buccaneers receiver Mike Williams.

In his rookie season Suh finished with 10 sacks which was more than any other defensive tackle in the NFL. He also had an interception and a fumble recovery for a touchdown.

Suh sailed through the season playing more like a veteran than a rookie. His only bad stat -- he was 0-for-1 kicking on point-after attempts -- can be overlooked since he was just thrown into the predicament after Jason Hanson had been hurt.

Suh underwent right shoulder surgery three weeks ago and is expected to make a full recovery before training camp.

He is the favorite to win the AP defensive rookie of the year which will be announced on Friday night.

(Follow me on Twitter @PaulaPasche.)