M.V.P.

Quarterback of the Year

Running Back of the Year

Wide Receiver of the Year

Tight End of the Year

Offensive Tackle of the Year

Offensive Guard of the Year

Center of the Year

4-3 Defensive End of the Year

3-4 Defensive End of the Year

Defensive Tackle of the Year

3-4 Outside Linebacker of the Year

4-3 Outside Linebacker of the Year

Inside Linebacker of the Year

Cornerback of the Year

Free Safety of the Year

Strong Safety of the Year

Kicker of the Year

Special Teams Player of the Year

Offensive Rookie of the Year

Defensive Rookie of the Year

Special Teams Rookie of the Year

Most Improved Offensive Player

Most Improved Defensive Player

M.U.P. (Most Unimportant Player)

Comeback Player of the Year

Blue Collar Player of the Year

Perseverance Award

Celebration Award

"I Don't Belong in the NFL" Award

Joe Value Player

Free Agent Nightmare Award

The Backdoor Bandit Award

Scrub of the Year

Coach of the Year

Coordinator of the Year

WalterFootball.com Award (Best Player)

The 17th-annual WalterFootball.com Awards are here! Stay tuned for a 2017 NFL Mock Draft update in a couple of days. Follow me @walterfootball for updates.- Matt Ryan, Falcons.I don't usually agree with the winner of the real MVP, but this is certainly an exception. The MVP is not the best player; it's the person who means the most to his team, and if you take him off that team and replace him with an ordinary player, what would become of that organization? By that definition, there were only two players who were above and beyond everyone else using that criteria: Matt Ryan and Aaron Rodgers. If both happened to be replaced by average signal-callers, the Falcons and Packers would've finished with losing records. By comparison, the Patriots were 3-1 without Tom Brady. Thus, Ryan and Rodgers were more valuable to their teams than Brady was to the Patriots. I'm giving this award to Ryan simply because he took his team further in the playoffs. Had the Packers won the NFC Championship, Rodgers would have claimed this prize.2015: Cam Newton, QB, Panthers2014: Aaron Rodgers, QB, Packers2013: Peyton Manning, QB, Broncos2012: Peyton Manning, QB, Broncos2011: Drew Brees, QB, Saints2010: Tom Brady, QB, Patriots2009: Drew Brees, QB, Saints2008: Kurt Warner, QB, Cardinals2007: Tom Brady, QB, Patriots2006: LaDainian Tomlinson, RB, Chargers2005: Tom Brady, QB, Patriots2004: Michael Vick, QB, Falcons2003: Tom Brady, QB, Patriots2002: Michael Vick, QB, Falcons2001: Tom Brady, QB, Patriots2000: Donovan McNabb, QB, Eagles- Matt Ryan, Falcons.The best quarterback is usually the MVP, and Matt Ryan was the top player at his position. This one is closer, as Tom Brady makes more sense to claim this award, but Ryan averaged more yards per game (309 to 296) and had a better yards-per-attempt figure (9.3 to 8.2). Ryan was just short of 5,000 passing yards (4,944), putting together an incredible season that should be recognized with multiple awards.2015: Cam Newton, Panthers2014: Aaron Rodgers, Packers2013: Peyton Manning, Broncos2012: Peyton Manning, Broncos2011: Aaron Rodgers, Packers2010: Aaron Rodgers, Packers2009: Peyton Manning, Colts2008: Drew Brees, Saints2007: Tom Brady, Patriots2006: Drew Brees, Saints2005: Carson Palmer, Bengals2004: Peyton Manning, Colts2003: Peyton Manning, Colts2002: Rich Gannon, Raiders2001: Kurt Warner, Rams2000: Peyton Manning, Colts- Ezekiel Elliott, Cowboys.Ezekiel Elliott took the league by storm and even received some real-life MVP votes despite being just a rookie. Elliott led the league in rushing by more than 300 yards, racking up 1,631 yards on the ground and 15 touchdowns. Sure, a number of running backs would've led the NFL in rushing yards behind Dallas' prolific offensive line, but Elliott proved to be an extraordinary back who was very difficult to tackle.2015: Adrian Peterson, Vikings2014: DeMarco Murray, Cowboys2013: Jamaal Charlies, Chiefs2012: Adrian Peterson, Vikings2011: Maurice Jones-Drew, Jaguars2010: Jamaal Charles, Chiefs2009: Chris Johnson, Titans2008: DeAngelo Williams, Panthers2007: Brian Westbrook, Eagles2006: LaDainian Tomlinson, Chargers2005: Larry Johnson, Chiefs2004: Curtis Martin, Jets2003: LaDainian Tomlinson, Chargers2002: Priest Holmes, Chiefs2001: Marshall Faulk, Rams2000: Marshall Faulk, Rams- Julio Jones, Falcons.If you ask many who accumulated the most receiving yards in the NFL last year, Julio Jones would be the most popular answer. Jones actually trailed T.Y. Hilton, 1,448 to 1,409, but played in two fewer games. Jones was the most dominant receiver in the league, as he routinely secured ridiculous catches on a weekly basis. What he did in the Super Bowl was amazing, and it's a shame for Atlanta that his toe-tapping grab had to be negated by some horrible play-calling.2015: Antonio Brown, Steelers2014: Antonio Brown, Steelers2013: Josh Gordon, Browns2012: Calvin Johnson, Lions2011: Calvin Johnson, Lions2010: Roddy White, Falcons2009: Andre Johnson, Texans2008: Larry Fitzgerald, Cardinals2007: Randy Moss, Patriots2006: Marvin Harrison, Colts2005: Steve Smith, Panthers2004: Muhsin Muhammad, Panthers2003: Randy Moss, Vikings2002: Marvin Harrison, Colts2001: Terrell Owens, 49ers2000: Randy Moss, Vikings- Travis Kelce, Chiefs.Rob Gronkowski is basically locked into winning this award every single year he's healthy, but 2016 was not one of those seasons. While Gronkowski was busy filming Super Bowl commercials, Travis Kelce dominated, leading all tight ends in receiving with 1,125 yards. Kelce did some crazy things from time to time, such as throwing a yellow flag at an official, but he was the best (healthy) player at his position.2015: Rob Gronkowski, Patriots2014: Rob Gronkowski, Patriots2013: Jimmy Graham, Saints2012: Rob Gronkowski, Patriots2011: Rob Gronkowski, Patriots2010: Jason Witten, Cowboys2009: Dallas Clark, Colts2008: Tony Gonzalez, Chiefs2007: Jason Witten, Cowboys2006: Antonio Gates, Chargers2005: Antonio Gates, Chargers2004: Tony Gonzalez, Chiefs2003: Tony Gonzalez, Chiefs2002: Todd Heap, Ravens2001: Tony Gonzalez, Chiefs2000: Tony Gonzalez, Chiefs- Joe Thomas, Browns."It's time to stop hogging this award, Joe. Thomas has been named the top player at his position for the fourth year in a row, proving how utterly useless left tackles can be if they don't have a quality quarterback to protect. It's a shame for Thomas, who's the league's best blind-side protector." This is something I wrote two years ago, and yet Thomas has won this award both seasons since! Thomas' career has been both amazing and sad. He's the best offensive tackle of this generation, but he hasn't been able to get to the playoffs because of his team's incompetence.2015: Joe Thomas, Browns2014: Joe Thomas, Browns2013: Joe Thomas, Browns2012: Joe Thomas, Browns2011: Joe Thomas, Browns2010: D'Brickashaw Ferguson, Jets2009: Joe Thomas, Browns2008: Michael Roos, Titans2007: Matt Light, Patriots2006: Tarik Glenn, Colts2005: Walter Jones, Seahawks2004: Walter Jones, Seahawks2003: Jonathan Ogden, Ravens2002: Willie Roaf, Chiefs2001: Orlando Pace, Rams2000: Jonathan Ogden, Ravens- Zack Martin, Cowboys.I wrote last year that Zack Martin was a close second to Marshal Yanda as the top guard in the NFL. This year, it's the opposite. Martin and Yanda were very close yet again, but the latter missed three games, so that's the only difference between these two elite guards.2015: Marshal Yanda, Ravens2014: Marshal Yanda, Ravens2013: Josh Sitton, Packers2012: Evan Mathis, Eagles2011: Carl Nicks, Saints2010: Josh Sitton, Packers2009: Jahri Evans, Saints2008: Kris Dielman, Chargers2007: Steve Hutchinson, Vikings2006: Steve Hutchinson, Vikings2005: Alan Faneca, Steelers2004: Alan Faneca, Steelers2003: Will Shields, Chiefs2002: Ron Stone, 49ers2001: Alan Faneca, Steelers2000: Randall McDaniel, Buccaneers- Travis Frederick, Cowboys.Man, I was wrong on Travis Frederick. The Cowboys still could've obtained him later than they did in the draft, but they shouldn't have any regrets about "reaching" for him just a bit because he has emerged as the top center in the NFL. He's equally proficient in pass and run blocking, and he's once again the top center in the NFL.2015: Travis Frederick, Cowboys2014: Nick Mangold, Jets2013: Dominic Raiola, Lions2012: John Sullivan, Vikings2011: Nick Mangold, Jets2010: Nick Mangold, Jets2009: Nick Mangold, Jets2008: Kevin Mawae, Titans2007: Jeff Saturday, Colts2006: Olin Kreutz, Bears2005: Jeff Hartings, Steelers2004: Kevin Mawae, Jets2003: Kevin Mawae, Jets2002: Kevin Mawae, Jets2001: Olin Kreutz, Bears2000: Tom Nalen, Broncos- Khalil Mack, Raiders.Khalil Mack plays both defensive end and linebacker, depending on the formation. I've decided to name him as a defensive end because there weren't any terrific options here, and there were so many great 3-4 edge rushers to choose from. Mack got off to a bit of a slow start in 2016, but was a monster down the stretch. He finished with 11.5 sacks and played the run very well.2015: Michael Bennett, Seahawks2014: Michael Bennett, Seahawks2013: Robert Quinn, Rams2012: J.J. Watt, Texans (3-4)2011: Jared Allen, Vikings2010: Julius Peppers, Bears2009: Jared Allen, Vikings2008: Jared Allen, Vikings2007: Jared Allen, Chiefs2006: Jason Taylor, Dolphins2005: Dwight Freeney, Colts2004: Julius Peppers, Panthers2003: Michael Strahan, Giants2002: Jason Taylor, Dolphins2001: Michael Strahan, Giants2000: Jason Taylor, Dolphins- Calais Campbell, Cardinals.For the first time ever on this Web site, J.J. Watt was not the 3-4 defensive end of the year. That's because he played just a few games in the wake of a back injury. With Watt sidelined, someone else has the opportunity to win this award. I think Calais Campbell deserves it. He was as dominant as ever in 2016, notching eight sacks and performing very well against the run.2015: J.J. Watt, Texans2014: J.J. Watt, Texans2013: J.J. Watt, Texans2012: J.J. Watt, Texans- Aaron Donald, Rams.J.J. Watt wasn't healthy and couldn't collect his perennial award, but Aaron Donald was. Donald is an absolute force at defensive tackle. He notched eight sacks in 2016, a very high number for an interior lineman, and he also stuffed the run exceptionally well. Donald has shown the ability to single-handedly dominate a game.2015: Aaron Donald, Rams2014: Gerald McCoy, Buccaneers2013: Gerald McCoy, Buccaneers2012: Geno Atkins, Bengals2011: Justin Smith, 49ers2010: Kyle Williams, Bills2009: Kevin Williams, Vikings2008: Albert Haynesworth, Titans2007: Albert Haynesworth, Titans2006: Tommie Harris, Bears2005: Casey Hampton, Steelers2004: Jamal Williams, Chargers2003: Kris Jenkins, Panthers2002: Warren Sapp, Buccaneers2001: Warren Sapp, Buccaneers2000: Warren Sapp, Buccaneers- Von Miller, Broncos.As mentioned earlier, there were plenty of players who could've won this award. There were so many great 3-4 rush linebackers in 2016, so it was difficult to choose the best one. Arguably the best player in the NFL, Von Miller definitely deserves to be named the top player at his position. Miller racked up 13.5 sacks and provided great run support. DeMarcus Ware was hurt quite a bit, so Miller saw more double teams than usual. That didn't affect his dominance in 2016.2015: Von Miller, Broncos2014: Justin Houston, Chiefs2013: Robert Mathis, Colts2011: DeMarcus Ware, Cowboys2010: Clay Matthews, Packers2009: DeMarcus Ware, Cowboys2008: DeMarcus Ware, Cowboys2007: DeMarcus Ware, Cowboys2006: Shawne Merriman, Chargers- K.J. Wright, Seahawks.Everyone talks about the Legion of Boom, but Seattle's linebackers were the best unit on the defense in 2016. K.J. Wright was the top 4-3 outside linebacker in the NFL, excelling in coverage and playing the run extremely well.2015: Jamie Collins, Patriots2014: Von Miller, Broncos2013: Lavonte David, Buccaneers2012: Von Miller, Broncos2005: Cato June, Colts2004: Takeo Spikes, Bills2003: Keith Bulluck, Titans2002: Derrick Brooks, Buccaneers2001: Jamir Miller, Browns2000: Derrick Brooks, Buccaneers- Bobby Wagner, Seahawks.As with J.J. Watt, Luke Kuechly was injured and couldn't win his usual positional award. Bobby Wagner can claim it instead. It could be argued that Wagner was the top non-pass-rushing linebacker in the NFL this past season.2015: Luke Kuechly, Panthers2014: Luke Kuechly, Panthers2013: NaVorro Bowman, 49ers2012: Patrick Willis, 49ers2011: Patrick Willis, 49ers2010: Lawrence Timmons, Steelers2009: Patrick Willis, 49ers2008: Ray Lewis, Ravens2007: Lofa Tatupu, Seahawks2006: Brian Urlacher, Bears2005: Brian Urlacher, Bears2004: Tedy Bruschi, Patriots2003: Ray Lewis, Ravens2002: Zach Thomas, Dolphins2001: Brian Urlacher, Bears2000: Ray Lewis, Ravens- Janoris Jenkins, Giants.I had trouble deciding the winner of this award. There were countless candidates, including the two Denver cornerbacks. Janoris Jenkins arguably was better. He signed a big contract last offseason and proved to be worth every penny. He was a true shutdown cornerback, covering extremely well, all while seldom missing tackles. Jenkins' great play was a major reason why the Giants' defense was so dominant in 2016.2015: Josh Norman, Panthers2014: Richard Sherman, Seahawks2013: Richard Sherman, Seahawks2012: Richard Sherman, Seahawks2011: Darrelle Revis, Jets2010: Tramon Williams, Packers2009: Darrelle Revis, Jets2008: Nnamdi Asomugha, Raiders2007: Antonio Cromartie, Chargers2006: Champ Bailey, Broncos2005: Champ Bailey, Broncos2004: Nate Clements, Bills2003: Ty Law, Patriots2002: Bobby Taylor, Eagles2001: Aeneas Williams, Rams2000: Samari Rolle, Titans- Devin McCourty, Patriots.Numerous safeties could have won this award, but I've decided to go with Devin McCourty. I've yet to give the Patriots an award, but that's only a small part of this. McCourty is a great safety, and he's also a selfless one as well; McCourty agreed to reduce his base salary prior to this season.2015: Eric Berry, Chiefs2014: Eric Weddle, Chargers2013: Jairus Byrd, Bills2012: Jairus Byrd, Bills2011: Eric Weddle, Chargers2010: Nick Collins, Packers2009: Darren Sharper, Saints2008: Ed Reed, Ravens2007: Sean Taylor, Redskins2006: Brian Dawkins, Eagles2005: Bob Sanders, Colts2004: Brian Dawkins, Eagles2003: Roy Williams, Cowboys2002: Rod Woodson, Raiders2001: Brian Dawkins, Eagles2000: Darren Sharper, Packers- Landon Collins, Giants.Landon Collins didn't perform very well as a rookie, struggling mightily in coverage. What a difference a year makes! Collins has become one of the top defenders in the NFL at any position. Collins is a dynamic play-maker who dominated some games. He and Janoris Jenkins were the primary reasons why the Giants had such a great stop unit in 2016.2015: T.J. Ward, Broncos2014: Kam Chancellor, Seahawks2013: Kam Chancellor, Seahawks2012: Reshad Jones, Dolphins2011: Troy Polamalu, Steelers2010: Troy Polamalu, Steelers2009: Bernard Pollard, Texans2008: Troy Polamalu, Steelers2007: Bob Sanders, Colts2006: Troy Polamalu, Steelers2005: Troy Polamalu, Steelers2004: Ed Reed, Ravens2003: Ed Reed, Ravens2002: Lance Schulters, Titans2001: Mike Brown, Bears2000: John Lynch, Buccaneers- Justin Tucker, Ravens.Justin Tucker was easily the best kicker in the NFL last year. He drilled 38 of his 39 attempts and didn't miss a single extra point. Most impressively, Tucker was a perfect 10-of-10 from beyond 50 yards. No other kicker connected on more than seven from 50-plus.2015: Stephen Gostkowski, Patriots2014: Matt Bryant, Falcons2013: Justin Tucker, Ravens2012: Blair Walsh, Vikings2011: David Akers, 49ers2010: Matt Bryant, Falcons2009: Garrett Hartley, Saints2008: Jason Hanson, Lions2007: Rob Bironas, Titans2006: Adam Vinatieri, Colts2005: Neil Rackers, Cardinals2004: Adam Vinatieri, Patriots2003: Mike Vanderjagt, Colts2002: Adam Vinatieri, Patriots2001: Adam Vinatieri, Patriots2000: Matt Stover, Ravens- Tyreek Hill, Chiefs.Only three players had more than one special-teams touchdown in the NFL this past season. Tyreek Hill was one of those individuals, and he scored three times! Hill isn't a consistent offensive player, but he makes big plays from time to time. His game-breaking ability allows him to be especially dangerous on special teams.2015: Tyler Lockett, Seahawks2014: Darren Sproles, Eagles2013: Cordarrelle Patterson, Vikings2012: Jacoby Jones, Ravens2011: Patrick Peterson, Cardinals2010: Devin Hester, Bears2009: Joshua Cribbs, Browns2008: Johnnie Lee Higgins, Raiders2007: Devin Hester, Bears2006: Devin Hester, Bears2005: Jerome Mathis, Texans2004: Eddie Drummond, Lions2003: Dante Hall, Chiefs2002: Michael Lewis, Saints2001: Troy Brown, Patriots2000: Derrick Mason, Titans- Dak Prescott, QB, Cowboys.This was a close race between Dak Prescott, Ezekiel Elliott and Jared Goff. Wait, maybe not one of those. Anyway, many were surprised that Prescott won the real Offensive Rookie of the Year award, but I actually agreed with it. Elliott tallied the better stats, but Prescott played the more difficult position to thrive as a rookie. We saw what the Cowboys were like in 2015 without Tony Romo, so what Prescott was able to do was quite remarkable.2015: Todd Gurley, RB, Rams2014: Odell Beckham, WR, Giants2013: Eddie Lacy, RB, Packers2012: Russell Wilson, QB, Seahawks2011: Cam Newton, QB, Panthers2010: Sam Bradford, QB, Rams2009: Sebastian Vollmer, OT, Patriots2008: Joe Flacco, QB, Ravens2007: Joe Thomas, OT, Browns2006: Vince Young, QB, Titans2005: Cadillac Williams, RB, Buccaneers2004: Ben Roethlisberger, QB, Steelers2003: Anquan Boldin, WR, Cardinals2002: Clinton Portis, RB, Broncos2001: Anthony Thomas, RB, Bears2000: Jamal Lewis, RB, Ravens- Joey Bosa, DE/OLB, Chargers.I never would have imagined that Joey Bosa would be the Defensive Rookie of the Year when he held out longer than any other rookie and missed the four games of the season as a result. Bosa was dominant when he took the field, however, notching 10.5 sacks in only 12 contests. Bosa was unblockable in many games, and it's scary to think that he'll only improve going forward.2015: Marcus Peters, CB, Chiefs2014: Aaron Donald, DT, Rams2013: Sheldon Richardson, DE/DT, Jets2012: Bobby Wagner, ILB, Seahawks2011: Aldon Smith, DE/OLB, 49ers2010: Ndamukong Suh, DT, Lions2009: Brian Cushing, OLB, Texans2008: Jerod Mayo, ILB, Patriots2007: Patrick Willis, ILB, 49ers2006: Mark Anderson, DE, Bears2005: Lofa Tatupu, ILB, Seahawks2004: Jonathan Vilma, ILB, Jets2003: Terence Newman, CB, Cowboys2002: Dwight Freeney, DE, Colts2001: Kendrell Bell, ILB, Steelers2000: Corey Simon, DT, Eagles- Tyreek Hill, Chiefs.Tyreek Hill won the Special Teams Player of the Year award, so it would be quite silly not to award him for the same award in the rookie category.2015: Tyler Lockett, Seahawks2014: Josh Huff, Eagles2013: Cordarrelle Patterson, Vikings2012: Blair Walsh, Vikings2011: Patrick Peterson, Cardinals2010: Jacoby Ford, Raiders2009: Percy Harvin, Vikings2008: Clifton Smith, Buccaneers2007: Yamon Figurs, Ravens2006: Devin Hester, Bears2005: Jerome Mathis, Texans2004: Wes Welker, Dolphins2003: Bethel Johnson, Patriots2002: Michael "Beer Man" Lewis, Saints2001: Steve Smith, Panthers2000: Ron Dixon, Giants- Terrelle Pryor, WR, Browns.Hey, look, the Browns have earned positive distinction outside of Joe Thomas' annual award. It's a miracle! What Terrelle Pryor did in 2016 could be considered a miracle as well. Pryor came into the season with just two career catches as a former quarterback. Pryor became Cleveland's No. 1 receiver, snatching 77 balls for 1,007 yards and five total touchdowns despite playing with some horrible quarterbacks. Pryor didn't quite reach the 1,800-yard mark that Charles Woodson predicted, but he definitely deserves to be considered the most improved offensive player.2015: Gary Barnidge, TE, Browns2014: Justin Forsett, RB, Ravens2013: Knowshon Moreno, RB, Broncos2012: Michael Crabtree, WR, 49ers2011: Fred Jackson, RB, Bills2010: Brandon Lloyd, WR, Broncos2009: Vernon Davis, TE, 49ers2008: DeAngelo Williams, RB, Panthers2007: Wes Welker, WR, Patriots2006: Ladell Betts, RB, Redskins2005: Ben Roethlisberger, QB, Steelers2004: Drew Brees, QB, Chargers2003: Steve Smith, WR, Panthers2002: Koren Robinson, WR, Seahawks2001: Troy Brown, WR, Patriots2000: Jeff Garcia, QB, 49ers- Lorenzo Alexander, DE/OLB, Bills.Lorenzo Alexander had always been a journey-man rotational player, never registering more than 2.5 sacks in a season. Alexander, 34 in May, was expected to be just a backup in Buffalo. Instead, the veteran exploded, registering 12.5 sacks out of nowhere. It was truly remarkable, and it'll be interesting if Alexander can repeat this performance in 2017.2015: David Amerson, CB, Raiders2014: Brandon Marshall, LB, Broncos2013: Jerry Hughes, DE/OLB, Bills2012: Muhammad Wilkerson, DE/DT, Jets2011: Jason Pierre-Paul, DE, Giants2010: Cameron Wake, DE/OLB, Dolphins2009: Ray Edwards, DE, Vikings2008: James Harrison, DE/OLB, Steelers2007: Mario Williams, DE, Texans2006: Nnamdi Asomugha, CB, Raiders2005: Derrick Burgess, DE, Raiders2004: James Hall, DE, Lions2003: Brian Russell, S, Vikings2002: Keith Bulluck, OLB, Titans2001: Ahmed Plummer, CB, 49ers2000: La'Roi Glover, DT, Saints- Rob Gronkowski, TE, Patriots.How the hell can Rob Gronkowski be the most unimportant player in the NFL? Well, the Patriots won the Super Bowl without him, didn't they? I actually went into conference championship weekend thinking that the winner of the Super Bowl would have a player win this "award." The Patriots, Falcons (Desmond Trufant), Packers (Sam Shields) and Steelers (Martavis Bryant) were all missing key players, yet they all advanced deep into the playoffs. That said, it's doubtful the Patriots would've been in a 28-3 hole had Gronkowski been on the field, but I thought I should note that New England had a great season without its top play-maker.2015: Robert Griffin, QB, Redskins2014: Jay Cutler, QB, Bears2013: Trent Richardson, RB, Colts2012: Randy Moss, Terrell Owens, Chad Johnson, WRs2011: Albert Haynesworth, DT, Patriots/Buccaneers2010: Terrell Owens, WR, Bengals2009: QB Dog Killer, QB, Eagles2008: Plaxico Burress, WR, Giants2007: Michael Vick, QB, Falcons2006: Randy Moss, WR, Raiders2005: Terrell Owens, WR, Eagles2004: Kevan Barlow, RB, 49ers2003: Keyshawn Johnson, WR, Buccaneers2002: Barrett Robbins, C, Raiders2001: Randy Moss, WR, Vikings2000: Deion Sanders, CB, Redskins- Jordy Nelson, WR, Packers.Jordy Nelson actually won the Associated Press' version of this award, and I would happen to agree with it. Nelson missed all of 2015 with an ACL tear, and Green Bay's offense was very inconsistent as a result. Nelson's injury was deemed very serious, and some speculated he wouldn't be the same again. Nelson got off to a slow start this year, but ended the season on a tear. Nelson finished with 97 catches, 1,257 yards and 14 touchdowns.2015: Eric Berry, S, Chiefs2014: Rolando McClain, LB, Cowboys2013: LeGarrette Blount, RB, Patriots2012: Adrian Peterson, RB, Vikings2011: Willis McGahee, RB, Broncos2010: Brandon Lloyd, WR, Broncos2009: Vince Young, QB, Titans2008: Kerry Collins, QB, Titans2007: Todd Collins, QB, Redskins2006: Jeff Garcia, QB, Eagles2005: Brad Johnson, QB, Vikings2004: Mark Fields, LB, Panthers2003: Marcus Robinson, WR, Ravens2002: Tommy Maddox, QB, Steelers2001: Garrison Hearst, RB, 49ers- Kyle Rudolph, TE, Vikings.Minnesota's offense was a train wreck this past season, but the one consistent force on that unit was Kyle Rudolph. The talented tight end worked very hard the previous offseason to avoid injuries, and it worked brilliantly. Playing all 16 games for the third time in six seasons, Rudolph set career-high figures, catching 83 passes for 840 yards. That's remarkable, considering that Rudolph spent a lot of time blocking as well. Despite all of this, Rudolph somehow didn't get voted into the Pro Bowl, which was ridiculous. On the bright side, Rudolph is very angry about being snubbed, so he plans to work even harder this offseason.2015: Jordan Reed, TE, Redskins2014: Anquan Boldin, WR, 49ers2013: Josh McCown, QB, Bears2012: Reggie Wayne, WR, Colts2011: Maurice Jones-Drew, RB, Jaguars2010: Drew Brees, QB, Saints2009: Steven Jackson, RB, Rams2008: Ben Roethlisberger, QB, Steelers2007: Fred Taylor, RB, Jaguars2006: Lorenzo Neal, FB, Chargers2005: Tedy Bruschi, ILB, Patriots2004: Troy Brown, WR/CB, Patriots2003: Brett Favre, QB, Packers2002: Hines Ward, WR, Steelers2001: Hines Ward, WR, Steelers- Alex Mack, C, Falcons.A great crime would've been committed had the Falcons won the Super Bowl. That crime would've been Alex Mack not winning the MVP. Mack broke his leg in the NFC Championship, yet continued to play through the injury. There was speculation that he would be out or limited in the big game, but Mack played on one leg, and did so tremendously. How he wasn't on the NFL.com MVP ballot is inexplicable, but it ultimately didn't matter because the Patriots prevailed. Still, Mack deserves credit for this display of perseverance.2015: Tom Brady, QB, Patriots2014: Cam Newton, QB, Panthers2013: Champ Bailey, CB, Broncos2012: Joe Flacco, QB, Ravens2011: Tim Tebow, QB, Broncos2010: Aaron Rodgers, QB, Packers2009: NFL Fans (for Brett Favre coverage)2008: Aaron Rodgers, QB, Packers2007: Eli Manning, QB, Giants2006: Peyton Manning, QB, Colts2005: Cincinnati Bengals Fans2004: John Fox, head coach, Panthers2003: Donovan McNabb, QB, Eagles- Odell Beckham Jr., WR, Giants.A lot can change in a year, and so we go from a team doing a very selfless act of handing out footballs to children after every touchdown, to a crazy person proposing to kicking nets at random times. Say what you want about Odell Beckham Jr., but the man is very entertaining. Whether he means to be entertaining is another question entirely, but all eyes are glued to the TV when he's playing.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)- Jed York, 49ers.Jed York made it known to the world that he isn't leaving the NFL anytime soon. When asked if he could be held accountable in the wake of firing Chip Kelly and Trent Baalke, the insecure York said defensively, "You can't fire the owner." Well, 49er fans wish they could because York has screwed up on almost every occasion. He's the worst owner in all of sports, and that's saying a lot because there are tons of bad ones.2015: Johnny Manziel, Browns2014: Johnny Manziel, Browns2013: Jonathan Martin, Dolphins2012: Titus Young, Lions2011: Caleb Hanie, Bears2010: Vince Young, Titans2009: Al Davis, Raiders2008: Detroit Lions2007: Randy Mueller, Dolphins2006: Charley Casserly, Texans2005: Charley Casserly, Texans2004: John York, 49ers2003: Steve Spurrier, Redskins2002: Marty Mornhinweg, Lions2001: Daniel Snyder, Redskins- Kyle Shanahan, FalconsThis new award, suggested by forum member Clov, is given to the player who provided us with the biggest "what the f*** are you doing" moment of the year.I originally planned to give this to Jeff Fisher for openly admitting that he didn't watch film at all last year, but then the Super Bowl happened. The Falcons ran the ball just four times with Devonta Freeman when they were up 28-3, and they didn't hand the ball off once after Julio Jones brought them into New England territory to set up a field goal. Kyle Shanahan was brilliant all year, but he was guilty of a massive brain fart in the most crucial moment.2015: Vontaze Burfict, Bengals2014: Darrell Bovell, Seahawks2013: Cleveland Browns Front Office2012: Mark Sanchez (Butt Fumble), Jets- Brock Osweiler, QB, Texans.I initially listed this as Chris Ivory's award, but I somehow completely forgot Brock Osweiler. The Texans flushed $72 million down the toilet by signing Osweiler. He was so bad that he was benched in favor of Tom Savage late in the year. The only reason he hasn't been cut yet is because of the cap penalty they'll get hit with if they do so.2015: Nate Allen, S, Raiders2014: Jairus Byrd, S, Saints2013: Jeff Ireland, GM, Dolphins2012: Robert Meachem, WR, Chargers- Drew Brees, QB, Saints.This new 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 did well on my Picks of the Month this year, going 5-1. My one loss was taking Detroit to cover at the Giants. That was a tough one to lose, as the Lions may have covered if Zach Zenner didn't fumble inside the 5-yard line. I needed to get my next Pick of the Month correct, and I chose the Saints over the Falcons. New Orleans had to cover +7. It was looking like a sure loser when they were down 38-13 entering the fourth quarter, but Brees put together a miraculous spread cover, bringing the margin to within 38-32.2015: Me2014: Pete Morelli, Official2013: Clete Blakeman, Official2012: Ray Rice, Ravens2009: Ted Ginn, Dolphins (retroactively)2008: Seneca Wallace, Seahawks (retroactively)- Russell Wilson, QB, Seahawks.This award is for the player who was the Scrub of the Week the most times on mypage. Only one player held that distinction thrice, and that would be Russell Wilson.Eddie Lacy deserved this award last year for being extremely overweight. Russell Wilson does not, as the reason he struggled was because of injuries and horrible offensive line play. Nevertheless, Wilson proved to be a big disappointment as a fantasy player, and there are no excuses for losing fantasy games. Wilson hurt his owners, and thus he'll take home this dubious award.2015: Eddie Lacy, RB, Packers2014: Jimmy Graham, TE, Saints2013: Ray Rice, RB, Ravens2012: Mark Sanchez, QB, Jets2011: LeGarrette Blount, RB, Buccaneers; Chris Johnson, RB, Titans2010: Randy Moss, WR, Patriots/Vikings/Titans2009: Jake Delhomme, QB, Panthers2008: Carson Palmer, QB, Bengals2007: Brian Griese, QB, Bears2006: Rex Grossman, QB, Bears2005: J.P. Losman, QB, Bills; Vinny Testaverde, QB, Jets2004: Mike Martz, head coach, Rams2003: Joey Harrington, QB, Lions; Jeff Garcia, QB, 49ers; Drew Bledsoe, QB, Bills2002: Randy Moss, WR, Vikings2001: Elvis Grbac, QB, Ravens- Bill Belichick, Patriots.I cannot believe Jason Garrett was named Coach of the Year in real life. How ridiculous is that? Garrett is a mediocre coach, at best, and he was horrible in preparing his team for the playoffs. I get that he reached the postseason with a rookie backfield, but he didn't deserve the award. You know who did? Some guy in New England who didn't have his Super Bowl MVP quarterback for four games, and yet still went 3-1 in those contests, which allowed the Patriots to achieve home-field advantage.2015: Bruce Arians, Cardinals2014: Bruce Arians, Cardinals2013: Bill Belichick, Patriots2012: John Harbaugh, Ravens2011: Jim Harbaugh, 49ers2010: Bill Belichick, Patriots2009: Rex Ryan, Jets2008: Bill Belichick, Patriots2007: Bill Belichick, Patriots2006: Bill Belichick, Patriots2005: Lovie Smith, Bears2004: Bill Cowher, Steelers2003: Bill Parcells, Cowboys2002: Jon Gruden, Buccaneers2001: Bill Belichick, Patriots- Kyle Shanahan, Falcons.Kyle Shanahan may have won the Joe Value Player of the Year award earlier, but he also needs to be acknowledged for the excellent job he did as Atlanta's offensive coordinator. Matt Ryan was playing at his very best under Shanahan's tutelage, and Atlanta was posting record-breaking offensive numbers. One blunder, even though it was egregious, shouldn't take away everything Shanahan accomplished in 2016.2015: Wade Phillips, Broncos2014: Gary Kubiak, Ravens2013: Rob Ryan, Saints2012: Bruce Arians, Colts2011: Wade Phillips, Texans2010: Dom Capers, Packers2009: Gregg Williams, Saints2008: Dick LeBeau, Steelers2007: Steve Spagnulo, Giants2006: Rex Ryan, Ravens2005: Dick LeBeau, Steelers2004: Charlie Weis and Romeo Crennel, Patriots2003: Jim Johnson, Eagles2002: Monte Kiffin, Buccaneers2001: Mike Mularkey, Steelers- Tom Brady, QB, Patriots.J.J. Watt wasn't around to collect the best-player award for the first time since 2012, so who was worthy enough to get this sort of acclaim in his absence? I thought about giving naming Julio Jones or Aaron Donald the best player in 2016, but then I realized that I had to name Tom Brady the best player in the NFL. Brady didn't win MVP, as he wasn't the most valuable player for his team compared to others. He also wasn't the Quarterback of the Year because he didn't post the best stats. However, Brady overcame Deflate-gate and performed on a very high level despite being suspended for four games. Brady continued to thrive despite Rob Gronkowski's injury, and he engineered the greatest comeback in Super Bowl history, winning despite trailing 28-3 in the second half. It was one of the greatest performances of all time.2015: J.J. Watt, DE, Texans2014: J.J. Watt, DE, Texans2013: J.J. Watt, DE, Texans2012: Adrian Peterson, RB, Vikings2011: Aaron Rodgers, QB, Packers2010: Aaron Rodgers, QB, Packers2009: Chris Johnson, RB, Titans2008: Larry Fitzgerald, WR, Cardinals2007: Tom Brady, QB, Patriots2006: LaDainian Tomlinson, RB, Chargers2005: Larry Johnson, RB, Chiefs2004: Ed Reed, S, Ravens2003: LaDainian Tomlinson, RB, Chargers2002: Michael Vick, QB, Falcons2001: Marshall Faulk, RB, Rams2000: Marshall Faulk, RB, Rams