Broncos outstanding rookie Von Miller claims defensive honor

Linebacker Von Miller #58 of the Denver Broncos tackles running back Thomas Jones #20 of the Kansas City Chiefs during the first half on November 13, 2011 at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri. Denver defeated Kansas City 17-10. (Peter Aiken/Getty Images)

Denver Broncos linebacker Von Miller was named NFL Defensive Rookie of the Month for November, the NFL announced on Thursday.

Miller tied for the team lead with 31 tackles (24 solo) in addition to contributing 4.5 sacks (28 yds.) and two passes defensed while helping Denver post a 4-0 record in the month of November. It was the first time the Broncos went undefeated in November since 2000.

This marks the fifth time a Broncos rookie has been given an offensive or defensive rookie of the month award (RB Mike Anderson, September 2000, December 2000; RB Clinton Portis, October 2002; LB D.J. Williams, December 2004). Miller is the first Bronco to win the award in seven seasons.

For the season, Miller has totaled 57 tackles (45 solo), including 10.5 sacks (69 yds.) and 16 tackles for a loss, along with 21 quarterback hits, four passes defensed and two forced fumbles. His 10.5 sacks rank first among league rookies and are tied for third overall in the NFL.

With eleven games played and five to go, Miller is four shy of Jevon Kearse‘s rookie sack record. Let’s hope he gets healthy so he can chase it.