2009 NFL Awards: My Picks

Most Valuable Player: Peyton Manning, QB, Colts

Peyton Manning became just the fourth quarterback in NFL history to throw for 50,000 yards in a career. He was the fastest to reach that milestone. Manning put together an outstanding year, almost achieving an undefeated season until Head Coach Jim Caldwell put in the reserves for the final two games (which I'm sure Wes Welker would've had no problem with). 

(Other considerations: Chris Johnson, Brett Favre, Phillip Rivers, Aaron Rodgers)

Offensive Player of the Year: Chris Johnson, RB, Titans

The only reason Johnson doesn't win MVP is because of Peyton Manning's outstanding year. Chris Johnson ran for over 2,000 yards, becoming only the sixth player ever to do so, and helped lead the Titans as they won eight of their last ten games after starting 0-6. 

(Other considerations: Brett Favre, Phillip Rivers, Aaron Rodgers, Andre Johnson, Miles Austin, Matt Schaub) 

Defensive Player of the Year:   Darrelle Revis, CB, Jets

Darrelle Revis shut-down anything in a mile of his range. Receivers couldn't do anything around him, as he has stepped up his game this year. The former Pittsburgh Panther finished with six interceptions, including one returned for a touchdown. Revis wasn't selected for stats though, but more for what doesn't show up in the box score. 

(Other considerations: Elvis Dumervil, Charles Woodson, Darren Sharper, Dwight Freeney) 

Most Improved Player: Miles Austin, WR, Cowboys

Miles Austin came out of nowhere to be the savior of the Dallas Cowboys receivers. Austin's door opened with the release of Terrell Owens over the offseason. Austin's big game against Kansas City was just one of many stellar performances, as he posted 1,320 yards receiving and earned his first trip to the Pro Bowl. 

(Other Considerations: Sidney Rice, Jamaal Charles, Jerome Harrison, Elvis Dumervil)

Comeback Player of the Year:  Cedric Benson, RB, Bengals

Cedric Benson has gone through so much, and is making the most of his second chance. Despite only playing 13 games in Cincinnati, Benson finished with 1,251 yards rushing and six touchdowns.

(Other considerations: Tom Brady, Brett Favre, Cadillac Williams, Vince Young)

Offensive Rookie of the Year: Percy Harvin, WR, Vikings

The obvious pick here, as Harvin did just about everything for the Vikings: catching the ball, running the ball, and returning kicks.

(Other Considerations: Mark Sanchez, Jeremy Maclin, Beanie Wells)

Defensive Rookie of the Year: Jairus Byrd, S, Bills

Byrd had a great season, and it was such a shame that it came to an end with an injury. Nevertheless, he still finished tied for first in the league with nine interceptions, despite only playing in 14 games and starting 11.

(Other Considerations: Brian Cushing, Brian Orakpo)