The Thomas Davis story could have ended in 2009. Or 2010. Or 2011. Because it didn't, the linebacker has become one of the most popular players in Panthers' history.

But Davis' didn't have much of a reputation beyond the borders of the NFC South until he was named the Walter Payton Man of the Year in February. That award, combined with his high level of play and an 8-0 start has spoiled the secret Panthers fans have long known.

"His story is one that you could make a movie out of, which they probably will, hopefully," coach Ron Rivera said Thursday.

"He’s starting to get the recognition and the notoriety, and he deserves it. Based on the way he’s played the last three seasons — coming back from a third knee (surgery) — it’s about time."

After becoming the first known NFL player to come back from three torn ACLs, Davis had Pro Bowl-worthy performances in each of his past three seasons. But outside linebackers in a 4-3 defense are often ignored for that honor, one that's essentially reserved for stand-up pass rushers who rack up a bunch of sacks in 3-4 defenses. That Davis is currently the leading vote-getter at his position proves people outside the Carolinas are finally noticing.

"I ain’t going to lie; I’m excited about it. It’s still early in the voting process, but hey, I’ll take it," Davis said.

While his comebacks inspired many, what Davis is doing now could be even more impressive. At 32, he's somehow getting better.

Midway through his 11th season, he's already set a career high with three interceptions and his three sacks are one shy of his most during a season. Davis' team-leading 65 tackles also put him on pace to break his career best of 123.

"I hope this is the year for him," fellow linebacker and two-time Pro Bowler Luke Kuechly said. "He needs to get out to Hawaii and have a chance to enjoy that."

Added Rivera: "I know it's a postseason type thing, and I promise you he'd much rather us go far into the playoffs. But selfishly, personally for him, I would love to see a guy like him get it."

The thing is, leading the Pro Bowl vote isn't the biggest news surrounding Davis this week. Sure, he may have been snubbed the past few years, but lots of guys go to the Pro Bowl. Very few ever have a shot to win Sports Illustrated's Sportsman of the Year.

Of the 12 finalists revealed Wednesday night, Davis was the NFL's lone representative. Other candidates include worldwide superstars like Usain Bolt, Lionel Messi and Stephen Curry.

"That’s an honor in itself, knowing that you’re being mentioned with the likes of some of those names that are on the list," Davis said.

Because of his competition, Davis is a longshot to win. Even one of his teammates admitted he'd vote for someone ... or ... something else.

"I love T.D., but that darn American Pharoah. Hey man, there ain’t been a horse like that in I don’t know how long,” said cornerback and horse owner Josh Norman.

Whether Davis wins Sportsman of the Year or finally gets voted into a Pro Bowl ultimately doesn't matter much. Recognition is validation, but his story already has a happy ending.

"TD was probably the first guy I connected with when I got here. The more I got to know him and the more I got to know about him, the more impressed I was with him," Rivera said. "Then, to see him go through what he did my first two seasons, it was heart-wrenching.

"Then, sitting down with Mr. Richardson in his office and listening to Thomas talk about his commitment to the organization and the team and just believing all he needed was one more shot. Looking at him and knowing he meant it and giving it to him and then watching him succeed.

"To me this is what it's about as a coach, when you find young men that succeed like that."