Ruud named NFC defensive player of the week

Bucs linebacker Barrett Ruud was named NFC Defensive Player of the Week for September 16.

Ruud had a career-high 16 tackles while registering two forced fumbles and one fumble recovery in a 31-14 win against the New Orleans Saints. Ruud's first forced fumble and fumble recovery in the first quarter set up the Bucs' first touchdown.

The honor, Ruud says, is nothing more than a byproduct of the team's fortunes.

"These things come with team success," Ruud said today. "Usually, if your team has a great effort, somebody is going to be recognized for it. That's kind of the overall goal."