ENGLEWOOD, Colo. — Denver Broncos safety Justin Simmons on Friday will be presented with the 11th Annual Darrent Williams Good Guy Award, as selected by the team's local media.

The award was created in memory of former Broncos cornerback Darrent Williams, who passed away on Jan. 1, 2007, after completing his second season with the team. The award is given annually to the Bronco who best exemplifies Williams' enthusiasm, cooperation and honesty while dealing with members of the press.

"In what has been a difficult season on the field for the Broncos, Justin was repeatedly commended for the quality of his answers to often tough questions and his willingness to step forward after both good and bad days for the team," said ESPN senior writer Jeff Legwold. "He is the youngest player to win the award and consistently showed the same accountability with all facets of the job as Darrent did at a similar age.''

Simmons is the 11th consecutive Broncos defensive player to win the local award. In what was one of the closest votes since the inception of the award in 2007, wide receiver Demaryius Thomas and nose tackle Domata Peko Sr. also received significant consideration for the honor.