Surprisingly, the Detroit market doesn’t hold a vote for the NFL awards, but here’s my ballot for the 2016 season.
MVP: Matt Ryan, QB, Falcons
Ryan had one of the best quarterbacking seasons in NFL history. Leading an offense that averaged a league-high 33.8 points per game, he completed 69.9 percent of his passes for nearly 5,000 yards, 38 touchdowns and seven interceptions. His 9.3 yards per pass attempt and 117.1 passer rating were among the best ever, helping propel the Falcons to the NFC South title and a first-round bye.
Honorable Mention: Patriots QB Tom Brady, Packers QB Aaron Rodgers
Defensive Player of the Year: Khalil Mack, LB, Raiders
Mack and Denver’s Von Miller were similarly disruptive, but Mack’s impact is more impressive given his lesser supporting cast.