NFL 2015: Finding the best player from all 32 teams
Last year, this would have been impossible because of the litany of candidates. This year? It’s like finding a needle in a haystack. Anquan Boldin is a very productive and professional player, so let’s roll with him. At 34 years old, Boldin caught 83 passes for 1,062 yards and five touchdowns, even with Colin Kaepernick at the helm.
Boldin is a terrific run-after-the-catch receiver, not because of speed but heart and strength. He’s also one of the best clutch receivers in the game, always finding ways to get open on critical plays and drives. Throughout his fantastic career, Boldin has amassed seven 1,000-yard seasons and 12,406 receiving yards, 19th all-time.
Honorable mention: Eric Reid, Joe Staley
The Cardinals made a terrific move in 2011, drafting cornerback Patrick Peterson with the fifth-overall pick in the NFL Draft. Peterson has been nothing short of spectacular, making the Pro Bowl all four season of his career while landing two All-Pro spots. Peterson has five touchdowns and 15 interceptions, showcasing his talents both on defense and special teams.
Peterson has always been surrounded by elite defensive backs, but has stood out for his playmaking and athleticism. The former LSU Tigers star has forced teams to punt toward the sideline with him on the field, only getting a chance to return 33 punts in 2014 compared to 51 the year before. Expect Peterson to only get better.
Honorable mention: Larry Fitzgerald, Mike Iupati