Minnesota Vikings

Vikings DT Linval Joseph wins NFC Defensive Player of the Week

Published Nov. 11, 2015 10:58 a.m. ET

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Minnesota Vikings defensive tackle Linval Joseph is finally garnering the national attention he deserves.

Joseph's efforts during Minnesota's 21-18, overtime win against the St. Louis Rams on Sunday were key to slowing down rookie running back Todd Gurley. The 329-pound lineman finished the day tied with linebacker Chad Greenway for the team lead with 10 tackles (seven solo). Three of his stops were made in the backfield, and he also notched a half-sack.

For his contributions in Week 9, Joseph was named NFC Defensive Player of the Week.

The Vikings signed Linval Joseph in free agency before the 2014 season, and the former New York Giant has since flourished as the anchor of Minnesota's defense. The national spotlight has only been cast in his direction with the team's recent success.

Nose tackle is a tough position to play and get noticed, but Joseph is pulling it off in his sixth NFL season. Veteran defensive end Brian Robison is doing his part to help raise awareness about his teammate's play by stumping for him as a candidate for this year's Pro Bowl, via the team's official Twitter account.

Joseph, a 27-year-old former second-round draft pick, is just now reaching his prime after winning a Super Bowl with his previous team. He will continue to be one of the team's key contributors, as the Vikings try to turn their 6-2 start into a deep playoff run.

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