Browns LB D'Qwell Jackson named recipient of Ed Block Courage Award

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Browns middle linebacker D’Qwell Jackson has been chosen by his teammates as the recipient of the Ed Block Courage Award. Jackson missed 26 games in the past two seasons with torn pectoral muscles, but he has made a successful comeback and started all 12 games this season.

The annual award recognizes a member of each of the 32 NFL teams who exemplifies the qualities of Ed Block, the former head athletic trainer of the Baltimore Colts. The qualities of courage, compassion, commitment and community are the criteria.

“There’s nobody more deserving of any award than D’Qwell," Browns coach Pat Shurmur said. "I’ve gained a strong appreciation for what he is as a player, as a man, as a professional. He’s the full package in my opinion, and his production’s been great. What he means to the team behind the scenes is outstanding, and he could be the recipient of a lot of awards in my mind just ‘cause I think the world of him.”

Jackson will be eligible for free agency after this season. When asked if the Browns want to retain Jackson, Shurmur said, "Absolutely. He’s a tremendous player, and we’d love to have him here."

Jackson leads the Browns with 112 tackles, which ranks second in the NFL. He has 2.5 sacks, two fumble recoveries, one interception and a forced fumble. He was also named the AFC Defensive Player of the Month for September.

"(He's) an exceptional person in many, many ways, and (it's) a richly deserved award," Browns defensive coordinator Dick Jauron said. "He's a very dedicated professional and a really solid person."