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NFL Awards Watch Week 16: Murray Injury Could Mix Things Up

By Keith Myers

Dec 14, 2014; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Dallas Cowboys running back DeMarco Murray (29) carries the ball as Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Brandon Graham (55) defends in the first quarter at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 14, 2014; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Dallas Cowboys running back DeMarco Murray (29) carries the ball as Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Brandon Graham (55) defends in the first quarter at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports /
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Defensive Player of the Year

J.J. Watt, DE, Houston Texans

Watt’s added two more sacks on Sunday, giving him five over the last two weeks and 16.5 on the season. That’s just a half-sack behind Justin Houston for the NFL lead. For a 3-4 defensive end to be up there with the edge rushers in that category is rather amazing.

Earl Thomas, FS, Seattle Seahawks

Seattle’s defense now ranks first in yards allowed and passing yards allowed, and there are no major categories in which they are out of the top 5. Thomas’ ability to play as a single-high safety makes Seattle’s entire scheme work. He constantly makes plays all over the field, and teams have been avoiding throwing in his direction all season.

Justin Houston, DE, Kansas City Chiefs 

Houston’s candidacy for this award depended on his ability to maintain his lead  in sacks this season. That hasn’t happened. Watt is only a half-sack behind, and Elvis Dumervil is now tied with Houston. Houston needs to have a pair of big games in the last two weeks of the season if he is going to play his way back into this race.

In the Hunt: Luke Kuechly (Car), Elvis Dumerville (Bal), DeAndre Levy (Det)

Next: Coach of the Year

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