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NFL midseason awards: Tom Brady takes hardware

By Staff

Oct 11, 2015; Arlington, TX, USA; New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) takes the field as sunbeams cut across the field during the game against the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 11, 2015; Arlington, TX, USA; New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) takes the field as sunbeams cut across the field during the game against the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 25, 2015; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs safety Eric Berry (29) before the game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Arrowhead Stadium. Kansas City won 23-13. Mandatory Credit: John Rieger-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 25, 2015; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs safety Eric Berry (29) before the game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Arrowhead Stadium. Kansas City won 23-13. Mandatory Credit: John Rieger-USA TODAY Sports /

Comeback Player of the Year: Eric Berry

This is no contest. Despite the inspiring comebacks of NaVorro Bowman and others from injury, Kansas City Chiefs strong safety Eric Berry captured the eyes and heart of the nation throughout the summer with his story. Berry was forced to miss the last five games of the 2014 NFL regular season following a diagnosis of Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. While Berry was given a good chance to beat the cancer, his life was suddenly in peril.

The 26-year-old had to endure rounds of chemotherapy with many believing that should Berry survive, his playing days might be over. At the least, it was a given that Berry would miss the 2015 season before becoming a free agent. Instead, the human spirit and Berry’s will triumphed. Berry worked out so vigorously that he actually GAINED a pound during chemo, showcasing the heart of a champion.

Berry not only returned for the 2015 season, but was there from the start of training camp. Berry has not missed a single practice and has been a starter since Week 2. Against the Pittsburgh Steelers, Berry recorded his first interception since returning, sending Arrowhead Stadium into pandemonium. Despite the Chiefs having a disappointing season, Berry’s story has been a beacon of light out of the heartland.

Berry not only lifts up those watching games, but any cancer patient looking for a little bit of inspiration. This was the easiest award of them all.

Next: NFL Coach of the Year

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