Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers and Pittsburgh Steelers running back Le’Veon Bell were named NFL Offensive Player of the month of December/January for their respective conferences on Thursday.
Rodgers backed up his claim that the Packers could run the table to earn a playoff berth by throwing 13 touchdowns against no interceptions over the last five games. He completed 102 of 161 attempts for 1,354 yards in that stretch and guided Green Bay to a Week 17 victory over the Detroit Lions to secure the NFC North title and a home playoff contest versus the New York Giants.
Bell exploded for 569 rushing yards and 748 from scrimmage in four games for the Steelers, who went on to win the AFC North title. Bell highlighted this surge with a 236-yard rushing performance in a 27-20 victory over the Buffalo Bills in Week 14.
Atlanta Falcons linebacker Vic Beasley was named NFC Defensive Player of the Month after recording six sacks and a fumble recovery for a touchdown in the last five games.
Houston Texans cornerback Quintin Demps helped his team secure the AFC South title with a strong finish. Demps collected four interceptions and added a fumble recovery for a score in the last five games.
Kansas City Chiefs wideout/returner Tyreek Hill continued his impressive campaign by reeling in AFC Special Teams Player of the Month honors. He had two punt returns for scores, including one in a key 21-13 triumph over the Oakland Raiders that allowed the club to eventually seize the West division title and a first-round bye.
Los Angeles Rams punter Johnny Hekker earned the NFC Special Teams Player of the Month award after recording a 49.74-yard average on 34 punts in five games.
San Diego Chargers defensive end Joey Bosa earned AFC Rookie of the Month honors, marking the second time he’s won the award this season. Bosa finished his initial campaign with 10.5 sacks in 12 games, including six over the last five contests.
Chicago Bears running back Jordan Howard received the NFC Rookie of the Month honors. He rushed for 547 yards in five games.