2015 NFL awards: New York Giants edition

Oct 19, 2014; Arlington, TX, USA; Dallas Cowboys running back DeMarco Murray (29) breaks a tackle of New York Giants outside linebacker Devon Kennard (59) in the second quarter at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports

Winner: Devon Kennard

The world seems to be very high on Devon Kennard and they are right to be. Kennard showed a lot of promise down the stretch last season. He stood out from the rest of the players and started to make a name for himself. Pro Football Focus rated him a “secret superstar.” That’s not a title just any player gets.

Kennard breaking out would highly benefit a very weak Giants’ linebacker corps. The linebackers are by far the weakest unit of the team. The Giants haven’t had a solid stand out linebacker in years. Jon Beason continues to get hurt and Kennard is the front-runner to take his place. Not only would Kennard stand out, he would become the leader of the defense.

Someone needs to be the quarterback of the defense and Kennard is the man for the job. Middle linebacker is a lot more of an important position than people realize. It holds. Kennard will lead the team in tackles in 2015, have one interception, and two forced fumbles. He will also lead the team in sacks.

This is a tall task for a second year linebacker, but it will be done. Kennard will be the force on the defense the Giants have been looking for. Spanguolo will be missing the heat from the defensive line, but will gain some of it from where he least expects it.

Next: Offensive Player Of The Year