Jonathan Vilma (born April 16, 1982 in Coral Gables, Florida) is an American football player who currently plays middle linebacker for the New York Jets of the NFL. Vilma was drafted by the Jets out of the University of Miami with a first-round selection in the 2004 NFL draft.
In 2004, Vilma was named as the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year by the Associated Press. During his rookie campaign, he recorded 105 tackles, two sacks, and three interceptions, including one which was returned for his first NFL touchdown.
In 2005, Vilma led the NFL in tackles with 173, forced four fumbles, notched one fumble recovery, half a sack, and one interception. Vilma also replaced Zach Thomas at the 2006 Pro Bowl.
