M.V.P. – Aaron Rodgers, QB, Packers.
I don’t often agree with the real MVP winner. For example, last year, I believed Russell Wilson deserved the award over Lamar Jackson. This season, however, Aaron Rodgers appropriately won the award. Rodgers was the most valuable player for his team. How I measure that is removing a player from a team and replacing him with an average player at the position. If you substitute Rodgers with an average quarterback, the Packers wouldn’t have made the playoffs. He carried his team despite the front office failing to find him a viable starting receiver outside of Davante Adams.
Past Winners of this Award:
2019: Russell Wilson, QB, Seahawks
2018: Drew Brees, QB, Saints
2017: Tom Brady, QB, Patriots
2016: Matt Ryan, QB, Falcons
2015: Cam Newton, QB, Panthers
2014: Aaron Rodgers, QB, Packers
2013: Peyton Manning, QB, Broncos
2012: Peyton Manning, QB, Broncos
2011: Drew Brees, QB, Saints
2010: Tom Brady, QB, Patriots
2009: Drew Brees, QB, Saints
2008: Kurt Warner, QB, Cardinals
2007: Tom Brady, QB, Patriots
2006: LaDainian Tomlinson, RB, Chargers
2005: Tom Brady, QB, Patriots
2004: Michael Vick, QB, Falcons
2003: Tom Brady, QB, Patriots
2002: Michael Vick, QB, Falcons
2001: Tom Brady, QB, Patriots
2000: Donovan McNabb, QB, Eagles
Quarterback of the Year – Aaron Rodgers, Packers.
The Packers really screwed up in the 2020 NFL Draft. They could have obtained Chase Claypool, Brandon Aiyuk, Tee Higgins and some other receivers for Aaron Rodgers. Instead, by selecting Jordan Love, they failed to properly build around their long-term quarterback. However, there was an unexpected side effect of the Love choice, which was that it motivated Rodgers to a ridiculous degree. Rodgers was out for blood in 2020. He had an amazing season, throwing 48 touchdowns compared to only five interceptions, and he also completed 70.7 percent of his passes. His previous best as a starter was 68.3 percent.
Past Winners of this Award:
2019: Patrick Mahomes, Chiefs
2018: Patrick Mahomes, Chiefs
2017: Tom Brady, Patriots
2016: Matt Ryan, Falcons
2015: Cam Newton, Panthers
2014: Aaron Rodgers, Packers
2013: Peyton Manning, Broncos
2012: Peyton Manning, Broncos
2011: Aaron Rodgers, Packers
2010: Aaron Rodgers, Packers
2009: Peyton Manning, Colts
2008: Drew Brees, Saints
2007: Tom Brady, Patriots
2006: Drew Brees, Saints
2005: Carson Palmer, Bengals
2004: Peyton Manning, Colts
2003: Peyton Manning, Colts
2002: Rich Gannon, Raiders
2001: Kurt Warner, Rams
2000: Peyton Manning, Colts
Running Back of the Year – Derrick Henry, Titans.
Derrick Henry was amazing down the stretch in 2019 and eventually ended up leading the league in rushing, but Christian McCaffrey was outstanding that entire season. Henry didn’t win this award as a result, but he was even better in 2020. He rushed for 2,027 rushing yards and 17 touchdowns, while many other top backs endured injuries.
Past Winners of this Award:
2019: Christian McCaffrey, Panthers
2018: Saquon Barkley, Giants
2017: Todd Gurley, Rams
2016: Ezekiel Elliott, Cowboys
2015: Adrian Peterson, Vikings
2014: DeMarco Murray, Cowboys
2013: Jamaal Charles, Chiefs
2012: Adrian Peterson, Vikings
2011: Maurice Jones-Drew, Jaguars
2010: Jamaal Charles, Chiefs
2009: Chris Johnson, Titans
2008: DeAngelo Williams, Panthers
2007: Brian Westbrook, Eagles
2006: LaDainian Tomlinson, Chargers
2005: Larry Johnson, Chiefs
2004: Curtis Martin, Jets
2003: LaDainian Tomlinson, Chargers
2002: Priest Holmes, Chiefs
2001: Marshall Faulk, Rams
2000: Marshall Faulk, Rams
Wide Receiver of the Year – Davante Adams, Packers.
There were seven wide receivers who caught double-digit touchdowns in 2020. It was obviously rare for anyone to have 10 or more receiving touchdowns. Yet, Davante Adams reeled in a whopping 18 scores! Adams was amazing in 2020, and he was instrumental in Aaron Rodgers’ MVP campaign.
Past Winners of this Award:
2019: Michael Thomas, Saints
2018: Julio Jones, Falcons
2017: Antonio Brown, Steelers
2016: Julio Jones, Falcons
2015: Antonio Brown, Steelers
2014: Antonio Brown, Steelers
2013: Josh Gordon, Browns
2012: Calvin Johnson, Lions
2011: Calvin Johnson, Lions
2010: Roddy White, Falcons
2009: Andre Johnson, Texans
2008: Larry Fitzgerald, Cardinals
2007: Randy Moss, Patriots
2006: Marvin Harrison, Colts
2005: Steve Smith, Panthers
2004: Muhsin Muhammad, Panthers
2003: Randy Moss, Vikings
2002: Marvin Harrison, Colts
2001: Terrell Owens, 49ers
2000: Randy Moss, Vikings
Tight End of the Year – Travis Kelce, Chiefs.
With George Kittle missing several games due to injury, Travis Kelce was able to win this award easily. Kelce was so tremendous in 2020 that he accumulated the second-most receiving yards in the NFL, which includes wideouts! He caught 105 passes for 1,416 yards and 11 touchdowns, which is absolutely ridiculous.
Past Winners of this Award:
2019: Travis Kelce, Chiefs
2018: Travis Kelce, Chiefs
2017: Rob Gronkowski, Patriots
2016: Travis Kelce, Chiefs
2015: Rob Gronkowski, Patriots
2014: Rob Gronkowski, Patriots
2013: Jimmy Graham, Saints
2012: Rob Gronkowski, Patriots
2011: Rob Gronkowski, Patriots
2010: Jason Witten, Cowboys
2009: Dallas Clark, Colts
2008: Tony Gonzalez, Chiefs
2007: Jason Witten, Cowboys
2006: Antonio Gates, Chargers
2005: Antonio Gates, Chargers
2004: Tony Gonzalez, Chiefs
2003: Tony Gonzalez, Chiefs
2002: Todd Heap, Ravens
2001: Tony Gonzalez, Chiefs
2000: Tony Gonzalez, Chiefs
Offensive Tackle of the Year – David Bakhtiari, Packers.
When the Packers demolished the Titans at home on Sunday Night Football, I thought they were destined to win the Super Bowl. Things changed several days later when David Bakhtiari was ruled out for the year. We quickly discovered how important Bakhtiari was to the team, as the Packers couldn’t protect Aaron Rodgers in the NFC Championship.
Past Winners of this Award:
2019: Ronnie Stanley, Ravens
2018: David Bakhtiari, Packers
2017: Lane Johnson, Eagles
2016: Joe Thomas, Browns
2015: Joe Thomas, Browns
2014: Joe Thomas, Browns
2013: Joe Thomas, Browns
2012: Joe Thomas, Browns
2011: Joe Thomas, Browns
2010: D’Brickashaw Ferguson, Jets
2009: Joe Thomas, Browns
2008: Michael Roos, Titans
2007: Matt Light, Patriots
2006: Tarik Glenn, Colts
2005: Walter Jones, Seahawks
2004: Walter Jones, Seahawks
2003: Jonathan Ogden, Ravens
2002: Willie Roaf, Chiefs
2001: Orlando Pace, Rams
2000: Jonathan Ogden, Ravens
Offensive Guard of the Year – Quenton Nelson, Colts.
Zack Martin was excellent when on the field, but missed too many games to qualify as the top guard in the NFL for the fifth year in a row. With that in mind, the best player at the position in the NFL was Quenton Nelson, who did a tremendous job of blocking for Philip Rivers and opening up running lanes for Jonathan Taylor.
Past Winners of this Award:
2019: Zack Martin, Cowboys
2018: Zack Martin, Cowboys
2017: Zack Martin, Cowboys
2016: Zack Martin, Cowboys
2015: Marshal Yanda, Ravens
2014: Marshal Yanda, Ravens
2013: Josh Sitton, Packers
2012: Evan Mathis, Eagles
2011: Carl Nicks, Saints
2010: Josh Sitton, Packers
2009: Jahri Evans, Saints
2008: Kris Dielman, Chargers
2007: Steve Hutchinson, Vikings
2006: Steve Hutchinson, Vikings
2005: Alan Faneca, Steelers
2004: Alan Faneca, Steelers
2003: Will Shields, Chiefs
2002: Ron Stone, 49ers
2001: Alan Faneca, Steelers
2000: Randall McDaniel, Buccaneers
Center of the Year – Corey Linsley, Packers.
As discussed earlier, I believed the Packers would win the Super Bowl in the wake of their blowout victory over the Titans. The significance behind that game was Corey Linsley’s return from an injury. The Packers struggled to blow out the opposition with Linsley missing for three games, but became a powerhouse once again in the wake of Linsley’s return – at least for one game.
Past Winners of this Award:
2019: Jason Kelce, Eagles
2018: Jason Kelce, Eagles
2017: Travis Frederick, Cowboys
2016: Travis Frederick, Cowboys
2015: Travis Frederick, Cowboys
2014: Nick Mangold, Jets
2013: Dominic Raiola, Lions
2012: John Sullivan, Vikings
2011: Nick Mangold, Jets
2010: Nick Mangold, Jets
2009: Nick Mangold, Jets
2008: Kevin Mawae, Titans
2007: Jeff Saturday, Colts
2006: Olin Kreutz, Bears
2005: Jeff Hartings, Steelers
2004: Kevin Mawae, Jets
2003: Kevin Mawae, Jets
2002: Kevin Mawae, Jets
2001: Olin Kreutz, Bears
2000: Tom Nalen, Broncos
4-3 Defensive End of the Year – Myles Garrett, Browns.
The Browns reached the playoffs for the first time since 2002, so someone from the roster had to win an award. Myles Garrett deserves that more than anyone else, as the dynamic, young edge rusher logged a dozen sacks despite missing a couple of games.
Past Winners of this Award:
2019: Danielle Hunter, Vikings
2018: Myles Garrett, Browns
2017: Calais Campbell, Jaguars
2016: Khalil Mack, Raiders
2015: Michael Bennett, Seahawks
2014: Michael Bennett, Seahawks
2013: Robert Quinn, Rams
2012: J.J. Watt, Texans (3-4)
2011: Jared Allen, Vikings
2010: Julius Peppers, Bears
2009: Jared Allen, Vikings
2008: Jared Allen, Vikings
2007: Jared Allen, Chiefs
2006: Jason Taylor, Dolphins
2005: Dwight Freeney, Colts
2004: Julius Peppers, Panthers
2003: Michael Strahan, Giants
2002: Jason Taylor, Dolphins
2001: Michael Strahan, Giants
2000: Jason Taylor, Dolphins
3-4 Defensive End of the Year – Aaron Donald, Rams.
We learned how important Aaron Donald is to the Rams in the divisional round of the playoffs. Donald tried to play through an injury, but wasn’t quite himself and had to sit out more plays than usual. The Rams weren’t able to generate any sort of pass rush as a result.
Past Winners of this Award:
2019: Aaron Donald, Rams
2018: Aaron Donald, Rams
2017: Cameron Heyward, DE/DT, Steelers
2016: Calais Campbell, Cardinals
2015: J.J. Watt, Texans
2014: J.J. Watt, Texans
2013: J.J. Watt, Texans
2012: J.J. Watt, Texans
Defensive Tackle of the Year – Chris Jones, Chiefs.
Chris Jones terrorized Josh Allen in the AFC Championship. The winner of this award was a close call between him and DeForest Buckner, and that performance clinched this award for the Kansas City defensive star. Jones is only 26, somehow, so he should be able to win this award on numerous occasions throughout the rest of his career.
Past Winners of this Award:
2019: Fletcher Cox, Eagles
2018: Fletcher Cox, Eagles
2017: Aaron Donald, Rams
2016: Aaron Donald, Rams
2015: Aaron Donald, Rams
2014: Gerald McCoy, Buccaneers
2013: Gerald McCoy, Buccaneers
2012: Geno Atkins, Bengals
2011: Justin Smith, 49ers
2010: Kyle Williams, Bills
2009: Kevin Williams, Vikings
2008: Albert Haynesworth, Titans
2007: Albert Haynesworth, Titans
2006: Tommie Harris, Bears
2005: Casey Hampton, Steelers
2004: Jamal Williams, Chargers
2003: Kris Jenkins, Panthers
2002: Warren Sapp, Buccaneers
2001: Warren Sapp, Buccaneers
2000: Warren Sapp, Buccaneers
3-4 Outside Linebacker of the Year – T.J. Watt, Steelers
It was a close call between T.J. Watt and Khalil Mack, but the former produced more sacks (15) than Mack (9) despite his bookend, Bud Dupree, missing the final third of the season. Teams were able to focus more on Watt, and yet they still couldn’t stop him.
Past Winners of this Award:
2019: T.J. Watt, Steelers
2018: Khalil Mack, Bears
2017: Von Miller, Broncos
2016: Von Miller, Broncos
2015: Von Miller, Broncos
2014: Justin Houston, Chiefs
2013: Robert Mathis, Colts
2011: DeMarcus Ware, Cowboys
2010: Clay Matthews, Packers
2009: DeMarcus Ware, Cowboys
2008: DeMarcus Ware, Cowboys
2007: DeMarcus Ware, Cowboys
2006: Shawne Merriman, Chargers
4-3 Outside Linebacker of the Year – Lavonte David, Buccaneers.
Lavonte David might be the most underrated player in our generation. He’s been one of the top linebackers in the NFL for nearly a decade, and yet he’s never ranked in the NFL’s top 100 list. He was amazing in 2020, so hopefully he gets proper recognition this time.
Past Winners of this Award:
2019: Demario Davis, Saints
2018: Darius Leonard, Colts
2017: Telvin Smith, Jaguars
2016: K.J. Wright, Seahawks
2015: Jamie Collins, Patriots
2014: Von Miller, Broncos
2013: Lavonte David, Buccaneers
2012: Von Miller, Broncos
2005: Cato June, Colts
2004: Takeo Spikes, Bills
2003: Keith Bulluck, Titans
2002: Derrick Brooks, Buccaneers
2001: Jamir Miller, Browns
2000: Derrick Brooks, Buccaneers
Inside Linebacker of the Year – Fred Warner, 49ers.
It’s hard to believe that Fred Warner was just a third-round pick three years ago. He’s had a meteoric rise since, and he’s now arguably the best non-pass-rushing linebacker in the NFL. Bobby Wagner and Eric Kendricks may argue otherwise, but Warner was better than both in 2020.
Past Winners of this Award:
2019: Eric Kendricks, Vikings
2018: Bobby Wagner, Seahawks
2017: Bobby Wagner, Seahawks
2016: Bobby Wagner, Seahawks
2015: Luke Kuechly, Panthers
2014: Luke Kuechly, Panthers
2013: NaVorro Bowman, 49ers
2012: Patrick Willis, 49ers
2011: Patrick Willis, 49ers
2010: Lawrence Timmons, Steelers
2009: Patrick Willis, 49ers
2008: Ray Lewis, Ravens
2007: Lofa Tatupu, Seahawks
2006: Brian Urlacher, Bears
2005: Brian Urlacher, Bears
2004: Tedy Bruschi, Patriots
2003: Ray Lewis, Ravens
2002: Zach Thomas, Dolphins
2001: Brian Urlacher, Bears
2000: Ray Lewis, Ravens
Cornerback of the Year – Jaire Alexander, Packers.
With Stephon Gilmore dealing with injuries throughout the 2020 campaign, Jaire Alexander stole the mantle as the top shutdown cornerback in the NFL. It was impossible for anyone to get open against Alexander last year. He even shut down the most talented receivers in the NFL.
Past Winners of this Award:
2019: Stephen Gilmore, Patriots
2018: Stephon Gilmore, Patriots
2017: Jalen Ramsey, Jaguars
2016: Janoris Jenkins, Giants
2015: Josh Norman, Panthers
2014: Richard Sherman, Seahawks
2013: Richard Sherman, Seahawks
2012: Richard Sherman, Seahawks
2011: Darrelle Revis, Jets
2010: Tramon Williams, Packers
2009: Darrelle Revis, Jets
2008: Nnamdi Asomugha, Raiders
2007: Antonio Cromartie, Chargers
2006: Champ Bailey, Broncos
2005: Champ Bailey, Broncos
2004: Nate Clements, Bills
2003: Ty Law, Patriots
2002: Bobby Taylor, Eagles
2001: Aeneas Williams, Rams
2000: Samari Rolle, Titans
Free Safety of the Year – Marcus Maye, Jets.
The Jets were considered the worst team in the NFL for much of the 2020 campaign, so it’s difficult to find something nice to say about them. Here’s one thing: Marcus Maye took a huge leap forward in production. He did a great job of becoming the Jets’ top dynamic player in the secondary in the wake of Jamal Adams’ departure.
Past Winners of this Award:
2019: Minkah Fitzpatrick, Steelers
2018: Eddie Jackson, Bears
2017: Harrison Smith, Vikings
2016: Devin McCourty, Patriots
2015: Eric Berry, Chiefs
2014: Eric Weddle, Chargers
2013: Jairus Byrd, Bills
2012: Jairus Byrd, Bills
2011: Eric Weddle, Chargers
2010: Nick Collins, Packers
2009: Darren Sharper, Saints
2008: Ed Reed, Ravens
2007: Sean Taylor, Redskins
2006: Brian Dawkins, Eagles
2005: Bob Sanders, Colts
2004: Brian Dawkins, Eagles
2003: Roy Williams, Cowboys
2002: Rod Woodson, Raiders
2001: Brian Dawkins, Eagles
2000: Darren Sharper, Packers
Strong Safety of the Year – John Johnson, Rams.
It was a tough choice between John Johnson and Adrian Amos, but the former was the better tackler in 2020. Johnson had a tremendous breakout 2020 campaign, as his emergence was a huge reason why the Rams had the top defense in the league.
Past Winners of this Award:
2019: Jamal Adams, Jets
2018: Jamal Adams, Jets
2017: Landon Collins, Giants
2016: Landon Collins, Giants
2015: T.J. Ward, Broncos
2014: Kam Chancellor, Seahawks
2013: Kam Chancellor, Seahawks
2012: Reshad Jones, Dolphins
2011: Troy Polamalu, Steelers
2010: Troy Polamalu, Steelers
2009: Bernard Pollard, Texans
2008: Troy Polamalu, Steelers
2007: Bob Sanders, Colts
2006: Troy Polamalu, Steelers
2005: Troy Polamalu, Steelers
2004: Ed Reed, Ravens
2003: Ed Reed, Ravens
2002: Lance Schulters, Titans
2001: Mike Brown, Bears
2000: John Lynch, Buccaneers
Kicker of the Year – Younghoe Koo, Falcons.
Younghoe Koo had an amazing year, going 37-of-39 in 2020. All, or even most of those kicks weren’t of the close variety. He was a perfect 8-of-8 from 50-plus, and he was 8-of-9 from 40 to 49.
Past Winners of this Award:
2019: Josh Lambo, Jaguars
2018: Aldrick Rosas, Giants
2017: Matt Bryant, Falcons
2016: Justin Tucker, Ravens
2015: Stephen Gostkowski, Patriots
2014: Matt Bryant, Falcons
2013: Justin Tucker, Ravens
2012: Blair Walsh, Vikings
2011: David Akers, 49ers
2010: Matt Bryant, Falcons
2009: Garrett Hartley, Saints
2008: Jason Hanson, Lions
2007: Rob Bironas, Titans
2006: Adam Vinatieri, Colts
2005: Neil Rackers, Cardinals
2004: Adam Vinatieri, Patriots
2003: Mike Vanderjagt, Colts
2002: Adam Vinatieri, Patriots
2001: Adam Vinatieri, Patriots
2000: Matt Stover, Ravens
Special Teams Player of the Year – Andrew Van Ginkel, Dolphins.
It seemed like Andrew Van Ginkel made a huge play on special teams for the Dolphins every week. Miami had the best special teams in the NFL this past season, and Van Ginkel was a huge reason for that.
Past Winners of this Award:
2019: Jamal Agnew, Lions
2018: Cory Littleton, Rams
2017: Jamal Agnew, Lions
2016: Tyreek Hill, Chiefs
2015: Tyler Lockett, Seahawks
2014: Darren Sproles, Eagles
2013: Cordarrelle Patterson, Vikings
2012: Jacoby Jones, Ravens
2011: Patrick Peterson, Cardinals
2010: Devin Hester, Bears
2009: Joshua Cribbs, Browns
2008: Johnnie Lee Higgins, Raiders
2007: Devin Hester, Bears
2006: Devin Hester, Bears
2005: Jerome Mathis, Texans
2004: Eddie Drummond, Lions
2003: Dante Hall, Chiefs
2002: Michael Lewis, Saints
2001: Troy Brown, Patriots
2000: Derrick Mason, Titans
Offensive Rookie of the Year – Justin Herbert, QB, Chargers.
Justin Herbert was seen as a raw, inconsistent prospect coming out of Oregon. His own head coach didn’t even think he could play right away, as Anthony Lynn opted to start Tyrod Taylor in Week 1. Herbert was finally named starter because of a medical mishap to Taylor ahead of Week 2, and the rest is history. Herbert had an amazing rookie campaign, nearly knocking off juggernauts like the Chiefs, Buccaneers and Saints, and then leading his team to four consecutive wins to close out the year.
Past Winners of this Award:
2019: Josh Jacobs, RB, Raiders
2018: Saquon Barkley, RB, Giants
2017: Alvin Kamara, RB, Saints
2016: Dak Prescott, QB, Cowboys
2015: Todd Gurley, RB, Rams
2014: Odell Beckham, WR, Giants
2013: Eddie Lacy, RB, Packers
2012: Russell Wilson, QB, Seahawks
2011: Cam Newton, QB, Panthers
2010: Sam Bradford, QB, Rams
2009: Sebastian Vollmer, OT, Patriots
2008: Joe Flacco, QB, Ravens
2007: Joe Thomas, OT, Browns
2006: Vince Young, QB, Titans
2005: Cadillac Williams, RB, Buccaneers
2004: Ben Roethlisberger, QB, Steelers
2003: Anquan Boldin, WR, Cardinals
2002: Clinton Portis, RB, Broncos
2001: Anthony Thomas, RB, Bears
2000: Jamal Lewis, RB, Ravens
Defensive Rookie of the Year – Chase Young, DE, Redskins.
Chase Young was so dominant last year that he nearly won the 4-3 Defensive End of the Year award despite being a rookie! Although he lacked any sort of experience, Young was able to dominate games in his first season as a pro, especially late in the year. It’s scary to think he’ll just keep getting better.
Past Winners of this Award:
2019: Nick Bosa, DE, 49ers
2018: Darius Leonard, LB, Colts
2017: Tre’Davious White, CB, Bills
2016: Joey Bosa, DE/OLB, Chargers
2015: Marcus Peters, CB, Chiefs
2014: Aaron Donald, DT, Rams
2013: Sheldon Richardson, DE/DT, Jets
2012: Bobby Wagner, ILB, Seahawks
2011: Aldon Smith, DE/OLB, 49ers
2010: Ndamukong Suh, DT, Lions
2009: Brian Cushing, OLB, Texans
2008: Jerod Mayo, ILB, Patriots
2007: Patrick Willis, ILB, 49ers
2006: Mark Anderson, DE, Bears
2005: Lofa Tatupu, ILB, Seahawks
2004: Jonathan Vilma, ILB, Jets
2003: Terence Newman, CB, Cowboys
2002: Dwight Freeney, DE, Colts
2001: Kendrell Bell, ILB, Steelers
2000: Corey Simon, DT, Eagles
Most Improved Offensive Player – Calvin Ridley, WR, Falcons.
If you were to tell someone last summer that Julio Jones would no longer be the No. 1 receiver on the Falcons by the end of the season, they’d think you were nuts. And yet, that’s the case now, as Ridley supplanted Jones in that role. Ridley caught 63 passes for 866 yards and seven touchdowns in 2019, and he saw those numbers balloon to 90 catches for 1,374 yards and nine scores this past season.
Past Winners of this Award:
2019: Lamar Jackson, QB, Ravens
2018: Eric Ebron, TE, Colts
2017: Jared Goff, QB, Rams
2016: Terrelle Pryor, WR, Browns
2015: Gary Barnidge, TE, Browns
2014: Justin Forsett, RB, Ravens
2013: Knowshon Moreno, RB, Broncos
2012: Michael Crabtree, WR, 49ers
2011: Fred Jackson, RB, Bills
2010: Brandon Lloyd, WR, Broncos
2009: Vernon Davis, TE, 49ers
2008: DeAngelo Williams, RB, Panthers
2007: Wes Welker, WR, Patriots
2006: Ladell Betts, RB, Redskins
2005: Ben Roethlisberger, QB, Steelers
2004: Drew Brees, QB, Chargers
2003: Steve Smith, WR, Panthers
2002: Koren Robinson, WR, Seahawks
2001: Troy Brown, WR, Patriots
2000: Jeff Garcia, QB, 49ers
Most Improved Defensive Player – Darious Williams, CB, Rams.
Darious Williams was just an unknown fringe player prior to 2020. The Rams decided to make him their No. 2 cornerback, and that decision paid dividends. Williams routinely shut down opposing receivers. Granted, he was able to benefit from a great defensive line and Jalen Ramsey’s presence, but Williams was exceptional, and no one saw that coming.
Past Winners of this Award:
2019: Shaq Barrett, DE, Buccaneers
2018: Dee Ford, DE/OLB, Chiefs
2017: Patrick Robinson, CB, Eagles
2016: Lorenzo Alexander, DE/OLB, Bills
2015: David Amerson, CB, Raiders
2014: Brandon Marshall, LB, Broncos
2013: Jerry Hughes, DE/OLB, Bills
2012: Muhammad Wilkerson, DE/DT, Jets
2011: Jason Pierre-Paul, DE, Giants
2010: Cameron Wake, DE/OLB, Dolphins
2009: Ray Edwards, DE, Vikings
2008: James Harrison, DE/OLB, Steelers
2007: Mario Williams, DE, Texans
2006: Nnamdi Asomugha, CB, Raiders
2005: Derrick Burgess, DE, Raiders
2004: James Hall, DE, Lions
2003: Brian Russell, S, Vikings
2002: Keith Bulluck, OLB, Titans
2001: Ahmed Plummer, CB, 49ers
2000: La’Roi Glover, DT, Saints
M.U.P. (Most Unimportant Player) – Jamal Adams, S, Seahawks.
Jamal Adams was an exceptional safety for the Jets, so the Seahawks believed they would get similar production from him after they traded tons of draft capital for him. They surrendered two first-round picks and a third-round selection, and yet they got nothing out of Adams. He was no better than a mediocre safety in Seattle this past season.
Past Winners of this Award:
2019: Mohamed Sanu, WR, Patriots
2018: Carlos Hyde, RB, Jaguars
2017: Jay Cutler, QB, Dolphins
2016: Rob Gronkowski, TE, Patriots
2015: Robert Griffin, QB, Redskins
2014: Jay Cutler, QB, Bears
2013: Trent Richardson, RB, Colts
2012: Randy Moss, Terrell Owens, Chad Johnson, WRs
2011: Albert Haynesworth, DT, Patriots/Buccaneers
2010: Terrell Owens, WR, Bengals
2009: QB Dog Killer, QB, Eagles
2008: Plaxico Burress, WR, Giants
2007: Michael Vick, QB, Falcons
2006: Randy Moss, WR, Raiders
2005: Terrell Owens, WR, Eagles
2004: Kevan Barlow, RB, 49ers
2003: Keyshawn Johnson, WR, Buccaneers
2002: Barrett Robbins, C, Raiders
2001: Randy Moss, WR, Vikings
2000: Deion Sanders, CB, Redskins
Comeback Player of the Year – Alex Smith, QB, Redskins.
Could this award have gone to anyone else? Seriously. Alex Smith nearly died from an infection upon having surgery on his broken leg. No one thought he would play again, and yet Smith returned to action this year and managed to lead the Redskins to a divisional victory.
Past Winners of this Award:
2019: Teddy Bridgewater, QB, Saints
2018: Andrew Luck, QB, Colts
2017: Keenan Allen, WR, Chargers
2016: Jordy Nelson, WR, Packers
2015: Eric Berry, S, Chiefs
2014: Rolando McClain, LB, Cowboys
2013: LeGarrette Blount, RB, Patriots
2012: Adrian Peterson, RB, Vikings
2011: Willis McGahee, RB, Broncos
2010: Brandon Lloyd, WR, Broncos
2009: Vince Young, QB, Titans
2008: Kerry Collins, QB, Titans
2007: Todd Collins, QB, Redskins
2006: Jeff Garcia, QB, Eagles
2005: Brad Johnson, QB, Vikings
2004: Mark Fields, LB, Panthers
2003: Marcus Robinson, WR, Ravens
2002: Tommy Maddox, QB, Steelers
2001: Garrison Hearst, RB, 49ers
Blue Collar Player of the Year – J.J. Watt, DE/DT, Texans.
The Texans were a team in severe turmoil this past season, thanks to Bill O’Brien’s incompetence. J.J. Watt stepped up and got O’Brien fired, and then he implored his teammates to give it their all in the wake of an embarrassing loss to the Bengals. The Texans were dreadful last year, but Watt brought forth great effort and energy every single week when he could have easily packed it in like some of his teammates.
Past Winners of this Award:
2019: Raheem Mostert, RB, 49ers
2018: Nick Mullens, QB, 49ers
2017: J.J. Watt, DE/DT, Texans
2016: Kyle Rudolph, TE, Vikings
2015: Jordan Reed, TE, Redskins
2014: Anquan Boldin, WR, 49ers
2013: Josh McCown, QB, Bears
2012: Reggie Wayne, WR, Colts
2011: Maurice Jones-Drew, RB, Jaguars
2010: Drew Brees, QB, Saints
2009: Steven Jackson, RB, Rams
2008: Ben Roethlisberger, QB, Steelers
2007: Fred Taylor, RB, Jaguars
2006: Lorenzo Neal, FB, Chargers
2005: Tedy Bruschi, ILB, Patriots
2004: Troy Brown, WR/CB, Patriots
2003: Brett Favre, QB, Packers
2002: Hines Ward, WR, Steelers
2001: Hines Ward, WR, Steelers
Perseverance Award – Alex Smith, Redskins.
I don’t like to double up the Comeback Player and Perseverance awards, but it seems necessary in this instance. Again, Alex Smith nearly died. There was some doubt about him being able to work normally again. No one thought he’d play another snap. And yet, he returned to action, against all odds. I can’t even imagine how hard he worked to even walk; let alone return to the gridiron.
Past Winners of this Award:
2019: Ryan Tannehill, Titans
2018: Browns fans
2017: Buffalo Bills
2016: Alex Mack, C, Falcons
2015: Tom Brady, QB, Patriots
2014: Cam Newton, QB, Panthers
2013: Champ Bailey, CB, Broncos
2012: Joe Flacco, QB, Ravens
2011: Tim Tebow, QB, Broncos
2010: Aaron Rodgers, QB, Packers
2009: NFL Fans (for Brett Favre coverage)
2008: Aaron Rodgers, QB, Packers
2007: Eli Manning, QB, Giants
2006: Peyton Manning, QB, Colts
2005: Cincinnati Bengals Fans
2004: John Fox, head coach, Panthers
2003: Donovan McNabb, QB, Eagles
Celebration Award – Justin Jefferson, WR, Vikings (Eye Goggles Dance).
Justin Jefferson missed out on Offensive Rookie of the Year because of Justin Herbert, but his impact was seen the most in the end zone. Once he scored for the first time in his rookie campaign, he introduced everyone to his patented Eye Goggles Dance, where he moved his hands from his hands to his hips a couple of times and then put his fingers around his eyes as if he were wearing goggles. Soon enough, everyone was doing it. In fact, this was the only celebration we saw all year.
Past Winners of this Award:
2019: Ezekiel Elliott, RB, Cowboys (Dak Prescott hip flip)
2018: Michael Thomas, WR, Saints (cell phone)
2017: None
2016: Odell Beckham Jr., WR, Giants (kicking nets)
2015: Carolina Panthers (balls to kids in stands)
2014: Jerry Jones and Chris Christie, Cowboys (GoP candidacy ruined)
2013: Richard Sherman, CB, Seahawks (Michael Crabtree taunt)
2012: Ray Lewis, Ravens (Ray Lewis dance)
2011: Tim Tebow, Broncos (Tebowing)
2010: Derek Anderson, Cardinals (press conference meltdown)
2009: Chad Ochocinco, Bengals (salute to Chris Henry)
2008: Santonio Holmes (Super Bowl ball prop)
2007: Jerry Jones, Cowboys (rapture)
2006: None (fine for celebrations)
2005: Chad Johnson, Bengals (many)
2004: Terrell Owens, Eagles (many)
2003: Joe Horn, Saints (cell phone)
2002: Terrell Owens, 49ers (Sharpee)
“I Don’t Belong in the NFL” Award – Bill O’Brien, Texans.
Bill O’Brien is no longer in the NFL, which has to sadden every team hoping that he would go to another franchise to ruin it. O’Brien did a great job of sabotaging the Texans, making dumb trades and gutting the entire front office in an attempt to surround himself with yes men. Inept owner Cal McNair was a huge fan of O’Brien, but reluctantly fired him when O’Brien got into a fight with J.J. Watt during practice.
Past Winners of this Award:
2019: Antonio Brown, Patriots
2018: Hue Jackson, Browns
2017: Tony Romo, CBS (because of how great he was at broadcasting)
2016: Jed York, 49ers
2015: Johnny Manziel, Browns
2014: Johnny Manziel, Browns
2013: Jonathan Martin, Dolphins
2012: Titus Young, Lions
2011: Caleb Hanie, Bears
2010: Vince Young, Titans
2009: Al Davis, Raiders
2008: Detroit Lions
2007: Randy Mueller, Dolphins
2006: Charley Casserly, Texans
2005: Charley Casserly, Texans
2004: John York, 49ers
2003: Steve Spurrier, Redskins
2002: Marty Mornhinweg, Lions
2001: Daniel Snyder, Redskins
Joe Value Player – Dwayne Haskins, Redskins
This award, suggested by forum member Clov, is given to the player/NFL individual who provided us with the biggest “what the f*** are you doing” moment of the year.
“Don’t throw interceptions.” This is what Ron Rivera told Dwayne Haskins after a disastrous, interception-laden performance against the Browns in Week 3. Haskins took that to heart, throwing absolutely nothing but checkdowns the following game. He even hurled a 5-yard checkdown on a fourth-and-13 in the red zone at one point. Rivera, realizing that he had a lost cause at quarterback, benched Haskins in favor of Kyle Allen. Rather than working hard to re-claim his job, Haskins made numerous trips to strip clubs and was photographed without a mask. He was stripped of his captaincy and ultimately released.
Past Winners of this Award:
2019: Myles Garrett, Browns
2018: NFL Officials
2017: Marcus Williams, Saints
2016: Kyle Shanahan, Falcons
2015: Vontaze Burfict, Bengals
2014: Darrell Bovell, Seahawks
2013: Cleveland Browns Front Office
2012: Mark Sanchez (Butt Fumble), Jets
Free Agent Nightmare Award – Kirk Cousins, QB, Vikings.
Congratulations to Kirk Cousins and the Vikings for claiming this award twice! Minnesota made the foolish decision of giving Cousins a fully guaranteed contract two years ago, yet it didn’t learn from its mistake, awarding Cousins with a ridiculous 3-year, $96 million contract in the spring. The Vikings would have been better off letting Cousins go and tanking for Trevor Lawrence.
Past Winners of this Award:
2019: Nick Foles, QB, Jaguars
2018: Kirk Cousins, QB, Vikings
2017: Kenny Britt, WR, Browns
2016: Brock Osweiler, QB, Texans
2015: Nate Allen, S, Raiders
2014: Jairus Byrd, S, Saints
2013: Jeff Ireland, GM, Dolphins
2012: Robert Meachem, WR, Chargers
The Backdoor Bandit Award – Teddy Bridgewater, Panthers.
This award, suggested by forum mod VBSiena, is given to the player who cost/won me the most money because of something bogus. The Backdoor Bandit was the moniker that I gave to Seneca Wallace, who was responsible for putting together a ridiculous amount of backdoor covers.
I finished seventh in the Supercontest. The only pick I lost in Week 17 was the Panthers +6.5 over the Saints. The yardage in the game was about even, but the result was a blowout because, while very effective in between the 20s, Teddy Bridgewater was an interception machine in the red zone. He was ultimately benched for Phillip Walker. Had Bridgewater not capsized in the red zone, and the Panthers covered, I would have finished fourth in the Supercontest. The difference between seventh and fourth? Oh, just $20,000!
Past Winners of this Award:
2019: 49ers
2018: Dee Ford, Chiefs
2017: Justin Houston, Chiefs
2016: Drew Brees, Saints
2015: Me
2014: Pete Morelli, Official
2013: Clete Blakeman, Official
2012: Ray Rice, Ravens
2009: Ted Ginn, Dolphins (retroactively)
2008: Seneca Wallace, Seahawks (retroactively)
Scrub of the Year – Ezekiel Elliott, RB, Cowboys.
This award is for the player who was the Scrub of the Week the most times on my NFL Power Rankings page. One player held that distinction twice: Tom Brady.
Ezekiel Elliott was Scrub of the Week three times in 2020. Anyone who paid attention to his performances can’t be surprised about that. Elliott gained weight and frequently fumbled. He was a major disappointment.
Past Winners of this Award:
2019: Tom Brady, QB, Patriots
2018: Rob Gronkowski, TE, Patriots
2017: Dez Bryant, WR, Cowboys
2016: Russell Wilson, QB, Seahawks
2015: Eddie Lacy, RB, Packers
2014: Jimmy Graham, TE, Saints
2013: Ray Rice, RB, Ravens
2012: Mark Sanchez, QB, Jets
2011: LeGarrette Blount, RB, Buccaneers; Chris Johnson, RB, Titans
2010: Randy Moss, WR, Patriots/Vikings/Titans
2009: Jake Delhomme, QB, Panthers
2008: Carson Palmer, QB, Bengals
2007: Brian Griese, QB, Bears
2006: Rex Grossman, QB, Bears
2005: J.P. Losman, QB, Bills; Vinny Testaverde, QB, Jets
2004: Mike Martz, head coach, Rams
2003: Joey Harrington, QB, Lions; Jeff Garcia, QB, 49ers; Drew Bledsoe, QB, Bills
2002: Randy Moss, WR, Vikings
2001: Elvis Grbac, QB, Ravens
Coach of the Year – Andy Reid, Chiefs.
Kevin Stefanski and Sean McDermott received consideration for Coach of the Year. Both were excellent in 2020. However, Andy Reid was the best coach, so I’m giving him this award. It’s so difficult to repeat in the NFL, yet Reid took the Chiefs back to the Super Bowl. He did a great job of making sure his team wasn’t complacent, as the Chiefs really lost just one game in the regular season.
Past Winners of this Award:
2019: Kyle Shanahan, 49ers
2018: Bill Belichick, Patriots
2017: Bill Belichick, Patriots
2016: Bill Belichick, Patriots
2015: Bruce Arians, Cardinals
2014: Bruce Arians, Cardinals
2013: Bill Belichick, Patriots
2012: John Harbaugh, Ravens
2011: Jim Harbaugh, 49ers
2010: Bill Belichick, Patriots
2009: Rex Ryan, Jets
2008: Bill Belichick, Patriots
2007: Bill Belichick, Patriots
2006: Bill Belichick, Patriots
2005: Lovie Smith, Bears
2004: Bill Cowher, Steelers
2003: Bill Parcells, Cowboys
2002: Jon Gruden, Buccaneers
2001: Bill Belichick, Patriots
Coordinator of the Year – Brandon Staley, Rams.
When the Rams parted ways with Wade Phillips, I naturally assumed their defense would decline in 2020. The opposite occurred, however, as the Rams had the best stop unit in the NFL. Brandon Staley was in charge of this group, and he was justly rewarded with the Chargers’ head-coaching gig this offseason.
Past Winners of this Award:
2019: Greg Roman, Ravens
2018: Vic Fangio, Bears
2017: Josh McDaniels and Matt Patricia, Patriots
2016: Kyle Shanahan, Falcons
2015: Wade Phillips, Broncos
2014: Gary Kubiak, Ravens
2013: Rob Ryan, Saints
2012: Bruce Arians, Colts
2011: Wade Phillips, Texans
2010: Dom Capers, Packers
2009: Gregg Williams, Saints
2008: Dick LeBeau, Steelers
2007: Steve Spagnulo, Giants
2006: Rex Ryan, Ravens
2005: Dick LeBeau, Steelers
2004: Charlie Weis and Romeo Crennel, Patriots
2003: Jim Johnson, Eagles
2002: Monte Kiffin, Buccaneers
2001: Mike Mularkey, Steelers
WalterFootball.com Award (Best Player) – Aaron Rodgers, QB, Packers.
Aaron Rodgers really had an incredible year. I posted the stats earlier, but let me do it again. He threw 48 touchdowns compared to only five interceptions, and he also completed 70.7 percent of his passes. He did this despite the front office wishing to usher him out of town in favor of Jordan Love. The front office failed to give Rodgers a viable No. 2 target, and if that wasn’t bad enough, the Packers were missing at least two offensive linemen for at least half the year. Despite all of this, Rodgers overcame all odds and nearly led his team to the Super Bowl.
Past Winners of this Award:
2019: Patrick Mahomes, QB, Chiefs
2018: Aaron Donald, DT, Rams
2017: Aaron Donald, DT, Rams
2016: Tom Brady, QB, Patriots
2015: J.J. Watt, DE, Texans
2014: J.J. Watt, DE, Texans
2013: J.J. Watt, DE, Texans
2012: Adrian Peterson, RB, Vikings
2011: Aaron Rodgers, QB, Packers
2010: Aaron Rodgers, QB, Packers
2009: Chris Johnson, RB, Titans
2008: Larry Fitzgerald, WR, Cardinals
2007: Tom Brady, QB, Patriots
2006: LaDainian Tomlinson, RB, Chargers
2005: Larry Johnson, RB, Chiefs
2004: Ed Reed, S, Ravens
2003: LaDainian Tomlinson, RB, Chargers
2002: Michael Vick, QB, Falcons
2001: Marshall Faulk, RB, Rams
2000: Marshall Faulk, RB, Rams
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