By Monte Perez
One of the reasons why the NFL is so successful is because every year a different player or team rises to the occasion. No one expected the Cincinnati Bengals to make it to the Super Bowl last season but they did. What surprises will happen in 2022?
Below are The Sports Whisperer’s pre-season predictions:
Come Back Player of the Year:
AFC: Mitchell Trubisky (Pittsburgh Steelers):
The whole NFL world wants to start rookie Kenny Pickens in Pittsburgh. I don’t see that happening. The Steelers made the post-season with a shot fighter in Ben Roethlisberger at quarterback last year. Mike Tomlin has never had a losing season and having Trubisky will give him more options than he had last season. WR George Pickens should be in the running for rookie of the year.
NFC: Marcus Mariota (Atlanta Falcons):
The Atlanta Falcons have no expectations this season. Pro Football Focus has its roster, offense line, and defense all ranked 30th or below. Kyle Pitts and Drake London should both have over 1000 receiving yards.
Defensive Player of the Year:
Two AFC Players:
Derwin James (Los Angeles Chargers):
The Los Angels Chargers should be one of the best teams in the AFC. They have drastically improved their defense with their off-season moves. James should be able to take chances, make plays and cause turnovers.
TJ Watt (Pittsburgh Steelers):
TJ has lived in JJ Watt’s shadow for years. Truth be told, he has been better than his brother for the past 3 seasons. Other than Aaron Donald, is there a better defensive player in the NFL?
Coach of the Year
AFC: Andy Reid (Kansas City Chiefs):
Most experts think that the Chiefs offense will suffer because of Tyreek Hill going to the Miami Dolphins. Let me remind everyone that Andy Reid won games with Alex Smith as his quarterback. Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs will be fine despite playing in the best division in the NFL
NFC: Nick Sirianni (Philadelphia Eagles):
The Eagles have a very talented roster and a top 5 offensive line They led the NFL in rushing last season. I have the Eagles making the playoffs and possibly winning the NFC East.
MVP:
AFC: Justin Herbert (Los Angeles Chargers):
The former Oregon Ducks quarterback is primed to have a monster year this season and the Chargers should make a playoff run. I expect him to be in the Top 5 in every QB category.
NFC: Mathew Stafford (LA Rams):
Stafford is in his second season under Sean McVay. I expect the Rams to win 12-13 games and Stafford to be the key to their success.
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