Ben Margot/Associated Press

The Kansas City Chiefs made cornerback Marcus Peters the 18th pick in last year's NFL draft, and he rewarded them by being named Defensive Rookie of the Year by the Pro Football Writers of America.

The PFWA announced the selection Tuesday on Twitter.

Peters dazzled for the Chiefs in 2015, playing a key role in the team winning 11 straight games en route to an 11-5 regular-season record and returning to the postseason. The team eventually lost to the New England Patriots in the AFC Divisional Round.

The former University of Washington star tied for the NFL lead with eight interceptions during the regular season. He returned two for touchdowns and had 26 passes defensed, starting all 16 games for head coach Andy Reid.

A deeper look at the numbers, per Pro Football Focus, further illustrates how dominant Peters was in his first season:

Kansas City has had a solid secondary during Reid's tenure, finishing in the top 10 in passing yards allowed each of the last two years, but Peters' presence gives the franchise a young cornerstone to build around.

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The Chiefs have a lot of questions to answer on defense this offseason, as safety Eric Berry and linebacker Derrick Johnson are some of their key free agents. Peters' emergence gives the front office some flexibility if it wants to use some money in a different area and let one of those players walk.

This was a fantastic year all around in Kansas City, with Peters being one of the huge bright spots. The Chiefs are going to be a dangerous team in 2016 with their young cornerback locking down the best receiver for opposing teams all year.