Vrabel named Defensive Player of the Year

Defensive player of year

With the idea being to reward those who played the whole way for a team heading to the postseason, the pick here is New England's do-it-all linebacker, Mike Vrabel, who just earned his first Pro Bowl nod in 11 seasons.

Vrabel is fourth in the AFC in sacks with 11 1/2, has forced five fumbles and can line up almost anywhere on the field. He also has two touchdown catches this year, the ninth and 10th of his career, showing his versatility.