CHARLOTTE – Linebacker Thomas Davis has been named NFC Defensive Player of the Month after Carolina's first undefeated November in franchise history.
"I'm very happy for Thomas because of how hard he's worked and the commitment he's made," head coach Ron Rivera said. "You're happy for young people that do things the right way and are now getting recognized."
Davis shined in Week 11 against the New England Patriots on Monday Night Football, recording a game-high 17 tackles - the most by any Panther this season and the third most in the NFL during a single game in November.
"He's playing as well if not better than any other outside linebacker in the league right now," linebackers coach Al Holcomb said.
Davis tallied 35 total tackles, tied for the fifth-highest total in the league during November. He added a sack, one interception, a forced fumble and two passes defensed.
Davis is the fifth Panther to earn Defensive Player of the Month, joining linebacker Sam Mills (November of 1995 and 1996), defensive end Mike Rucker (September of 2002 and 2003), defensive end Julius Peppers (November of 2004 and 2008 and October of 2006) and linebacker Jon Beason (October of 2008).
"It's something he's deserved," linebacker Luke Kuechly said. "It's good to finally see him get a little recognition."
