Suh tops anonymous survey involving more than 320 players.
Detroit Lions defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh has been named as the ‘most feared’ player in the NFL in the first in a series of ESPN anonymous surveys.
Suh led the way with 61 votes (19 per cent), while team-mate and wide receiver Calvin ‘Megatron’ Johnson followed with 58 votes.
However, the 27-year-old did insist that he had hoped by being most feared that it referred to his rivals being worried about how he would affect the game as opposed to any negative connotations that could come with the title.
“If it’s feared from the context of they don’t want to play against me and they are worried about how I may affect the game and affect the offense, it’s definitely appreciated,” Suh told ESPN.com.
“It’s definitely seen as a plus and a positive. Guys have respect for you, just like guys have respect for Calvin.
“I’m surprised I edged him out but, hopefully, I don’t have to edge him out and we can just be co-winners. I prefer that.”
The difference in reputation between the two Lions stars is evident, as Suh has spent most of his career trying to overcome his reputation for being a dirty player while Johnson is widely respected and liked for his explosive play and memorable catches.
When told the results, ‘Megatron’ laughed before agreeing with Suh and stated that it is considered strong praise to be recognised by his fellow players in the league.
“Well, the fact that you’re doing something right and that you’re doing it consistently,” Johnson said. “You can’t be inconsistent and teams game plan and scheme for you.
“So I just enjoy the fact that I’m doing it on a consistent basis.”
Nevertheless, both players were left disappointed this season as a late slump saw them fall out of contention for the playoffs and finish the season 7-9 and third in the NFC North.
The changes have already begun after former coach Jim Schwartz was fired on ‘Black Monday’, although there has yet to be confirmation on who will replace him.
Detroit will be of particular interest to UK fans of the NFL, as they will be part of the three International Series games at Wembley later this year, as they face the Atlanta Falcons on October 26.
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