Denver Broncos linebacker Nik Bonitto has been named the first-ever Hispanic Professional Football Player of the Year by the Hispanic Football Hall of Fame. The announcement follows a season in which Bonitto achieved 14 sacks, setting a career high, and contributed significantly to his team’s defensive performance.
Bonitto, who is of Cuban descent, was previously recognized as a Pro Bowler, PFWA All-NFL player, and Sporting News All-Pro. He is also one of five finalists for the AP NFL Defensive Player of the Year award. During the past season, he recorded 28 quarterback hits, two forced fumbles, 46 tackles, and 14 tackles for loss. In Denver’s Divisional Round victory over the Buffalo Bills, he added another sack and two forced fumbles.
“Congratulations to Nik Bonitto for a fantastic season,” said Ron Rivera, founding board member of the Hispanic Football Hall of Fame. “He’s exactly the type of player and person we created this special recognition to celebrate.”
A selection committee consisting of Sandy Nunez, Judy Battista, Rolando Cantu, Paul Gutierrez, Brandon Huffman, Moises Linares, Alex Marvez, Armando Salguero and John Sutcliffe chose Bonitto for this honor.
“Nik continues to excel as one of the league’s best pass rushers,” said Anthony Muñoz, Pro Football Hall of Famer and founding board member. “We celebrate his cultural pride.”
Bonitto will be formally recognized at the Hispanic Football Hall of Fame’s Celebración de Fútbol event on May 5 in Las Vegas.
