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 15th-annual WalterFootball.com Awards are here! Stay tuned for a 2015 NFL Mock Draft update in a couple of days. Follow me @walterfootball for updates.- Aaron Rodgers, Packers.I usually don't agree with the true MVP winner, so I anticipated that J.J. Watt would claim the award. Watt was incredible this past season, but he couldn't have been MVP because he didn't lead his team to the playoffs. The counter to that is he didn't have a quarterback, but that's precisely the point. The quarterback position is so valuable that a signal-caller has to be the MVP almost every year. Watt wasn't even the MVP of his own division. He was the best player, but he wasn't the most valuable.There were two clear-cut MVP candidates: Aaron Rodgers and Andrew Luck. Both carried their teams, both of which would've been awful had they been injured. Rodgers was better, so I'll give the award to him. We all saw what happens to the Packers when he's not in the lineup when they sputtered without him in 2013. Rodgers was one onside kick recovery away from taking Green Bay to the Super Bowl.2013: 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- Aaron Rodgers, Packers.The best quarterback is usually the MVP, and Aaron Rodgers was the top player at his position. Rodgers, despite playing on one leg during the second half of the year, threw just five interceptions compared to 38 touchdowns. If all the NFL teams were drafting all the league's players out of a pool, Rodgers would probably be the first player chosen, though Andrew Luck would garner some consideration.2013: 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- DeMarco Murray, Cowboys.Prior to this season, DeMarco Murray was seen as an unreliable player. He got hurt every year, so despite the fact that no one really doubted his talent, it was pretty much seen as a given that he wouldn't be able to make it through the 2014 season. Murray proved everyone wrong, rushing for 1,845 yards - nearly 500 more than the No. 2 player in that category, Le'Veon Bell. Murray will generate a ton of interest in free agency this offseason.2013: 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- Antonio Brown, Steelers.Odell Beckham received a ton of consideration, but Antonio Brown was the more-consistent player all season. In fact, he's been the most consistent wideout in the NFL over the past two years. The last time he has caught fewer than five passes in a game was during the 2012 campaign. That's absolutely insane. Brown produces every single week.2013: 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- Rob Gronkowski, Patriots.The difference between the Patriots' offense that sputtered in 2013 and the one that dominated this past season was Rob Gronkowski. The Gronk was injured for most of 2013, but he was healthy this year, and he managed to lead all tight ends with 1,124 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns. Greg Olsen was the only other tight end who eclipsed the 1,000-yard barrier, but he scored only six times.2013: 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. He surrendered just two sacks in each of the past couple of seasons.2013: 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- Marshal Yanda, Ravens.Marshal Yanda and Evan Mathis were the top two tackles in the NFL, but the latter missed half the season, so Yanda has to win this by default. Yanda was terrific in all regards; he permitted just one sack, and he blasted open huge holes for Justin Forsett.2013: 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- Nick Mangold, Jets.The Jets don't have much going for them, especially now with Rex Ryan gone, but Nick Mangold is an exception. Mangold, who has won this award for the fourth time, had a dominant 2014 campaign. He allowed only one sack, and he allowed Chris Ivory to look like a pretty competent running back.2013: 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- Michael Bennett, Seahawks.Michael Bennett didn't have the most sacks of the 4-3 defensive ends, but he generated a tremendous pass rush for a player his size (6-3, 275). He also was a dominant force against the run, as his presence was the main reason why Seattle sported one of the NFL's top ground defenses.2013: 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- J.J. Watt, Texans.Something tells me J.J. Watt is going to win this award for a very long time. Watt is the best player in the NFL, so he's obviously the top 3-4 defensive end in the league. He can single-handedly dominate a game, and teams with poor offensive lines don't stand a chance against him.2013: J.J. Watt, Texans2012: J.J. Watt, Texans- Gerald McCoy, Buccaneers.Ndamukong Suh was chosen one pick earlier than Gerald McCoy in the 2010 NFL Draft. Suh gets all of the acclaim, and yet McCoy has been the better player when healthy. McCoy has registered 17.5 sacks over the past two seasons, including eight in 2014. That 17.5 figure is 3.5 more than what Suh has accumulated. Besides, McCoy doesn't go around stomping on player's ankles. Suh nearly missed the playoff game because of that, so his attitude definitely has to be factored into this award.2013: 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- Justin Houston, Chiefs.This one wasn't close. Justin Houston won this by a landslide, much like he dominated the league-leader list in terms of sacks. He came just one shy of breaking Michael Strahan's record. Unfortunately for Houston, he didn't have someone like Brett Favre on the other end, who was more than willing to take a dive.2013: Robert Mathis, Colts2011: DeMarcus Ware, Cowboys2010: Clay Matthews, Packers2009: DeMarcus Ware, Cowboys2008: DeMarcus Ware, Cowboys2007: DeMarcus Ware, Cowboys2006: Shawne Merriman, Chargers- Von Miller, Broncos.Von Miller won't win this award next year because he'll be playing in Wade Phillips' 3-4 scheme. Miller was dominant as ever in 2014, registering 14 sacks. In four NFL seasons, Miller has eclipsed 11.5 sacks on three occasions, and the lone outlier came in 2013 when he missed nine games. It'll be interesting to see how well he plays in the 3-4. Perhaps he'll break Michael Strahan's single-season sack record.2013: Lavonte David, Buccaneers2012: Von Miller, Broncos2005: Cato June, Colts2004: Takeo Spikes, Bills2003: Keith Bulluck, Titans2002: Derrick Brooks, Buccaneers2001: Jamir Miller, Browns2000: Derrick Brooks, Buccaneers- Luke Kuechly, Panthers.Luke Kuechly didn't have to contend with either of the San Francisco linebackers, so he was able to win this award pretty easily. Kuechly was exceptional in all regards once again. He was forceful against the run and happened to be even better in coverage. He even chipped in with a few sacks as a blitzer. Kuechly helped carry the Panthers into the divisional round of the playoffs once again.2013: 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- Richard Sherman, Seahawks.It's so close between Richard Sherman and Darrelle Revis. Let's break down the numbers:Sherman: 48.0%, 1 TD, 6 INTs, 13.3 yards per rec., 3 penaltiesRevis: 51.8%, 4 TDs, 3 INTs, 13.2 yards per rec., 4 penaltiesHmm... maybe not as close as I thought it would be.2013: 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- Eric Weddle, Chargers.Earl Thomas gets all the acclaim, and he could have easily won this award, but Eric Weddle was a bit better throughout the 2014 season. Weddle carried an injury-ravaged secondary and was dominant in all facets of the game, playing both the run and the pass extremely well.2013: 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- Kam Chancellor, Seahawks.Kam Chancellor got off to a rough start in his first couple of games, but didn't surrender a single touchdown after Week 2. Chancellor deserves to win this award for the second year in a row; he did a good job matching up against opposing tight ends, including Rob Gronkowski in the Super Bowl. And let's not forget what he did versus Carolina in the divisional round of the playoffs.2013: 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- Matt Bryant, Falcons.Stephen Gostkowski hit the most field goals, but he drilled just one from 50-plus. Plus, he screwed me in the Green Bay game. Matt Bryant, on the other hand, was 7-of-10 from beyond 50 yards, which is just incredible. He also once again proved to be extremely clutch.2013: 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- Darren Sproles, Eagles.Only punt returners could be looked at. Would you believe that there were just six kickoff return touchdowns in 2014? Roger Goodell has done many dumb things, and one was moving the kickoffs closer to midfield. At any rate, Darren Sproles was only one of two players to score twice on special teams. The other was Micah Hyde, but the Packer defensive back was seldom used, attempting just 14 returns. Sproles had 39 and averaged a terrific 13 yards per attempt.2013: 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- Odell Beckham, WR, Giants.Sammy Watkins and Mike Evans would've been strong candidates any other year, but Odell Beckham dwarfed both of their production - in just two-thirds of a season! Beckham didn't play until Week 5, and he didn't see major playing time prior to Week 7, yet he caught 91 passes for 1,305 yards and 12 touchdowns. He made awesome catches look routine, and he was unstoppable down the stretch. Look at what he did in his final six games: 60 receptions, 842 yards, nine touchdowns. Extrapolate that over a full 16-game slate, and you'd get 160 catches, 2,245 yards and 24 scores. Holy crap.2013: Eddie Lacy, RB, Packers 2012: 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- Aaron Donald, DT, Rams.Aaron Donald was a riser during the pre-draft process, and he definitely lived up to the hype. He didn't start until Week 6, but he overpowered the opposition in the trenches during the second half of the year. Finishing with nine sacks and stopping the run well, Donald could make the case that he was the top 4-3 defensive tackle in the NFL last year.2013: 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- Josh Huff, Eagles.Josh Huff was one of the six aforementioned players to score on a kickoff return this past season. He didn't get many opportunities because he didn't play in the first four games of the year.2013: 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- Justin Forsett, RB, Ravens.Justin Forsett rushed for 1,266 yards and caught 44 passes in 2014. Not bad for someone who had just six carries the year before. Forsett wasn't even brought back to the Jaguars, yet he turned into a star running back for Baltimore in the wake of Ray Rice's suspension.2013: 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- Brandon Marshall, LB, Broncos.This Brandon Marshall used to be known as the "other" Brandon Marshall prior to this season. The Bears' Marshall is still the more-famous one, but the Broncos' Marshall has transformed into a stellar defender. In fact, when Marshall was knocked out of the lineup with an injury late in the regular season, Denver couldn't stop the run whatsoever.2013: 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- Jay Cutler, QB, Bears.Quarterbacks are generally the leaders of the team. They're not supposed to quit on the locker room. Jay Cutler is heartless and doesn't care whether his team wins or loses. Aside from the defense, Cutler single-handedly capsized the team and ultimately got Marc Trestman fired. The worst part is that the Bears can't get rid of Cutler; they would take such a big cap hit from cutting him that they have no choice but to deal with his indifference again in 2015.2013: 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- Rolando McClain, LB, Cowboys.Rob Gronkowski won this award in real life, but unlike the Gronk, Rolando McClain was actually out of the NFL, so I feel like he's more deserving of Comeback Player of the Year. Here's what I wrote about McClain in the NFL Free Agent Rankings : "McClain came out of nowhere last year. He failed in Baltimore and was out of the league for a season. Dallas gave him a chance, and it paid off; McClain was tremendous against both the run and the pass, serving as the leader of the defense. There's a chance he could regress, but perhaps he has truly turned his life around."2013: 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- Anquan Boldin, WR, 49ers.The 49ers fielded a team full of quitters this past season. Vernon Davis and Michael Crabtree both gave minimal effort, and the same can be said about Jim Harbaugh. Anquan Boldin, on the other hand, brought it every week. While enduring Colin Kaepernick's terrible inconsistency, Boldin caught 83 passes for 1,062 yards and five touchdowns - despite being 34 years old.2013: 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- Cam Newton, QB, Panthers.So many things were stacked against Cam Newton. He had to deal with a horrendous offensive line and a receiving corps completely devoid of talent. Once the games started, Newton suffered multiple injuries, and the team was just 3-8-1 heading into December. A healthy and energized Newton, however, was able to lead the Panthers on a four-game winning streak. Carolina somehow entered the playoffs and beat Arizona before playing a respectable game against Seattle.2013: 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- Jerry Jones and Chris Christie, Cowboys.I thought about the Marshawn Lynch crotch grab or the Doug Baldwin fake poop on the football, but the one that stood out to me was the celebration that had all of Twitter buzzing for days. After all, Christie completely ruined his chances of becoming President of the United States by hugging Jones, all while his lard giggled up and down. But Jerry Jones didn't want Chris Christie there . For proof, check the link.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)- Johnny Manziel, Browns.Johnny Manziel told the media that he didn't belong in the NFL, when he referred to himself as an average 21-year-old kid just living life. Manziel clearly didn't understand what went into being a professional quarterback, and it showed. In a game and a half of action, Manziel looked completely overmatched. He barely had any positive plays, performing like one of the worst signal-callers in league history. His poor play didn't serve as a reality check, however, as he foolishly hosted a party a couple of days before Cleveland's Week 17 game. Manziel has checked himself into rehab, which is probably a PR move to save face. He won't be in the NFL much longer.2013: 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- Darrell Bovell, OC, SeahawksThis 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.The Browns probably could've won this again when they paired Josh Gordon, a known substance addict, with Johnny Manziel, one of the greatest enablers on this planet. The results were horrendous - but not nearly as bad as Darrell Bovell's play-call on the final real play of the Super Bowl. The Seahawks had the victory in hand; all they had to do was run the ball with Marshawn Lynch. Even a safe, play-action pass wouldn't have hurt. Throwing a slant into traffic was insanely stupid. In fact, Wikipedia even said that Bovell was the first clinically brain-dead individual to ever coach a Super Bowl.2013: Cleveland Browns Front Office2012: Mark Sanchez (Butt Fumble), Jets- Jairus Byrd, S, Saints.This new award, suggested by forum member SirA, is given to the player who was the worst free agent signing of the offseason. There were a number of poor contracts handed out last offseason, as usual. Here are three terrible ones:DE Michael Johnson: 5 years, $43.75M; $24M guaranteedS Michael Mitchell: 5 years, $25M; $5.25M guaranteedOT Anthony Collins: 5 years, $30M; $15M guaranteedAll of these players either did nothing or struggled immensely. However, these were awesome bargain deals compared to this contract:S Jairus Byrd: 6 years, $54M; $28M guaranteedByrd played just four games before suffering a season-ending injury, but he was terrible in those contests. He held up poorly against the run, while quarterbacks who targeted him maintained a rating in the 90s. Not exactly what the Saints thought they were getting when they gave him $28 million guaranteed.2013: Jeff Ireland, GM, Dolphins2012: Robert Meachem, WR, Chargers- Pete Morelli, NFL Official.This new award, suggested by forum mod VBSiena, is given to the player who cost 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.This didn't actually cost me money, but it could have. It has to win this award though because it was one of the most crooked moments in all of sports. I'm referring to the overturned pass interference call in the Dallas-Detroit playoff game. It cost the Lions a playoff victory by allowing the Cowboys to take over after a punt. They scored, and they nearly had a front-door field goal following a Matthew Stafford fumble. Fortunately, Detroit recovered the first of Stafford's cough-ups.This call was incredible. No one had ever seen the official throw a flag and announce the penalty, and then inexplicably reverse it. I still can't believe that happened. It allowed the NFL to have a highly rated contest between the Packers and the Cowboys the following week, which had conspiracy theorists like myself wondering if this was orchestrated by Roger Goodell to secure a better TV contract in the future.As for something that actually did cost me money, the call in the Week 2 Monday nighter between the Eagles and the Colts was brutal. Here's what I wrote in the recap:I'm not sure if there's a point in writing about a game that probably was fixed. If it wasn't, the officials were biased for some inexplicable reason. The Colts were driving, up seven and in the red zone. Brandon Boykin had one of the most blatant defensive holds you'll ever see on T.Y. Hilton. The infraction wasn't called, and Andrew Luck's interception stood. On the ensuing possession, Indianapolis was whistled for a horse collar that wasn't even close to being such a penalty. This allowed the Eagles to continue their drive and ultimately score the tying touchdown.2013: Clete Blakeman, Official2012: Ray Rice, Ravens2009: Ted Ginn, Dolphins (retroactively)2008: Seneca Wallace, Seahawks (retroactively)- Jimmy Graham, TE, Saints.This award is for the player who was the Scrub of the Week the most times on mypage. Only one player held that distinction twice, and that would be Jimmy Graham.It's a little unfair that Graham gets this "award" because he labored through an injury in the second half of the season, but I'm kind of glad because it gives me the opportunity to bring up the Saints, who cost me more money than any team this year. The Saints were an ungodly abomination, with their downfall being inexplicable. They held a top-10 defense in 2013, yet maintained one of the worst stop units in the NFL this past season despite spending tons of money on Jairus Byrd. Drew Brees, meanwhile, was downright awful at times. There's a chance he could be done, though Tom Brady also looked "done" in 2013 and managed to rebound.2013: 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- Bruce Arians, Cardinals.The NFL got this one right as well. The Cardinals were the final team to be undefeated, yet they had no business having a zero in the loss column, given that Carson Palmer missed some time, while the defense didn't have several of its key players. Arians got the most out of his team, but unfortunately, it was too taxing toward the end of the year. When Palmer and Drew Stanton went down, Arizona was cooked. It's a shame, as Arians may have taken his team into the second round of the playoffs with Stanton at the helm.2013: 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: John Gruden, Buccaneers2001: Bill Belichick, Patriots- Gary Kubiak, Ravens.Gary Kubiak wasn't much of a head coach when he was with the Texans - John Elway, what are you doing? - but he showed that he's one of the best coordinators in the business. Not only did Kubiak transform Justin Forsett into a star running back; he got the most out of Joe Flacco, as the former Super Bowl champion posted the best stats of his career in 2014.2013: 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- J.J. Watt, DE, Texans.Once again, J.J. Watt is not the most valuable player because quarterbacks hold way more value than any other position in the current state of the NFL. Watt, however, is the best player in the league, and I'm not sure it's even close. No one else can dominate weak competition like he does; he's the single reason why the Titans and Jaguars couldn't beat Houston this year. Watt simply dominated the weak offensive lines and crushed the spirit of the opposing quarterback. Oh, and he also caught several touchdown passes to boot. Unfortunately, he can't play quarterback for the Texans. Or can he...?2013: 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