Voters on NFL.com have made their choice.
Linebacker Nick Barnett of the Green Bay Packers is the Pepsi NFL Rookie of the Week for games played on September 14-15, the NFL announced Thursday.
Barnett recorded a team-high 14 tackles, an interception and had one pass defensed in the Packers' 31-6 win over Detroit.
"I'm excited that I got recognized for having a good game," Barnett said, "but I have to go out there this week and try to improve on last week."
Barnett's interception, the first of his career, set up Green Bay's third touchdown and extended the Packers' lead to 24-6.
"The bigger prize is winning and I'm just happy we won the game."
More than 40,000 fans voted this week on NFL.com. Barnett was selected from among five finalists.
The other finalists were Seattle Seahawks safety Ken Hamlin, Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Byron Leftwich, Indianapolis Colts defensive end Robert Mathis and St. Louis Rams linebacker Pina Tinoisamoa.
After the regular season, five players will be nominated for Pepsi NFL Rookie of the Year honors.
Fans can vote for the winner on NFL.com throughout the month of January. The winner will be announced at a press conference at Super Bowl XXXVIII in Houston.
This is Pepsi's second year as the official soft drink sponsor of the NFL.
2003 PEPSI NFL ROOKIE OF THE WEEK
Wk 1: WR Anquan Boldin, Arizona (Florida State)
Wk 2: LB Nick Barnett, Green Bay (Oregon State)
