Vikings edge rusher Jonathan Greenard named NFC Defensive Player of the Week

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Quarterback C.J. Stroud #7 of the Houston Texans is sacked by Jonathan Greenard #58 of the Minnesota Vikings during the fourth quarter at U.S. Bank Stadium on September 22, 2024 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. ((Photo by Brace Hemmelgarn/Getty Images))

MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) - Jonathan Greenard had a big day against his former team as the Minnesota Vikings beat the Houston Texans 3-7 on Sunday, and was honored by the NFL on Wednesday.

Greenard was named the NFC Defensive Player of the Week.

Vikings locker room reacts after 34-7 win over Texans

Vikings players Justin Jefferson, Jonathan Greenard, Aaron Jones, Cam Bynum, Stephon Gilmore, Garrett Bradbury, Harrison Smith and Brian O’Neill react from the locker room after a 34-7 win over the Texans on Sunday at U.S. Bank Stadium and a 3-0 start.

Why it matters

Greenard had a single-game career-high three sacks and four tackles. His three sacks were also the most in the NFL last week.

"Really cool to see him making such an impact here early on," Vikings coach Kevin O'Connell said.

It’s the first honor in Greenard’s career. He also helped limit the Texans to 38 rushing yards and just seven points. The Vikings’ defense, led by Brian Flores, is allowing just 10 points per game this season through three weeks.

The award is the first for the Vikings in 2024 and gives them four defensive winners since the start of last season. It also marks the 12th NFC Player of the Week award under Vikings Head Coach Kevin O’Connell in 37 games.