Arizona Cardinals End of the Season Awards

David Johnson was the Cardinals best player in 2016

When David Johnson was drafted in 2015, analysts mostly liked what he brought to the table, but few saw him as a future star. The young running back proved them all wrong with a 2016 performance that left everyone breathless.

As the season moved along, Johnson began to establish himself as a legitimate NFL MVP candidate. With every 100 yard game (a number he broke every week except for week 17) more people took notice. He piled up numbers from week to week, even though the team wasn’t winning consistently.

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An injury shortened his final game, but for the year, his numbers were elite. He had 1,239 yards rushing,  and 2,118 yards from scrimmage (he had 80 receptions for 879 yards), which led the league. He also wound up the NFL leader in touchdowns, with 20.

Johnson had one of the greatest seasons an Arizona Cardinals running back has ever had. His play was amazing all season and he was the team’s best player. His numbers made the entire league stand up and take notice. His versatility, determination, and heart made him the Cardinals most valuable player in 2016.