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This is one of those years when “most valuable player” is open to interpretation.

Who’s been more essential to Dallas finally ending its 8–8 cycle and returning to the playoffs: NFL rushing leader DeMarco Murray or quarterback Tony Romo? Who’s more important to Pittsburgh’s resurgence: Ben Roethlisberger, Antonio Brown or Le’Veon Bell?

Does Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski benefit more from catching passes thrown by a future Hall of Famer, or does he make Tom Brady look even better (if that’s possible)?

And finally, in a sport dominated by offense, can the MVP be a defensive player—especially one whose team probably won’t make the playoffs?

The answer here is yes—and this vote goes to Houston defensive end J.J. Watt.

In the 57-year history of the NFL’s MVP award, only two defensive players have won it: Minnesota’s Alan Page (1971) and the Giants’ Lawrence Taylor (1986). Watt deserves to be the third.

He’s widely regarded as the game’s best player. Despite frequent double-teams (and the yearlong absence of No. 1 pick Jadeveon Clowney), he’s second in the NFL with 17 sacks. Throw in 11 passes batted down, five fumbles recovered, three forced, an interception and a blocked extra point.