LAS VEGAS (AFLWA) – Defensive specialist Corey Johnson tied the Dragons' record with three interceptions to help New York improve its playoff chances, and he was named the Player of the Week by the Arena Football League Writers Association (AFLWA).

Johnson's play helped key the Dragons' 44-20 victory over the Dallas Desperados. New York (7-5) moved into first place in the Eastern Division. He also made nine solo tackles.

Mike Furrey, in 2002 against the then-New Jersey Gladiators, was the last Dragon to intercept three passes. The first player was Todd Harrington in 1997 when the club was the Iowa Barnstormers. Harrington's big game came against the Milwaukee Mustangs.

Johnson is the first defensive specialist to win this award, but the Dragons lead all teams with three such honors. Quarterback Aaron Garcia has twice been Player of the Week this season.

The AFLWA, founded at the start of the 2004 season, is a national organization made up of media members who cover the Arena Football League. Mark Anderson of the Las Vegas Review-Journal is the AFLWA's founder and executive director.