Defensive end Cliff Avril was the obvious choice for the Detroit Lions' defensive MVP award, and he was in fact the recipient of the honor as voted on by his teammates. The offensive MVP award wasn't necessarily as clear cut, as two players had legitimate arguments for the honor: quarterback Matthew Stafford and wide receiver Calvin Johnson. Although Stafford did have an amazing season, Lions players went with Johnson for the Bobby Layne Offensive MVP Award.
Here is what Lions receivers coach Shawn Jefferson had to say about Johnson:
"This kid has an affection and a deep love for wanting to be the best," said Lions receivers coach Shawn Jefferson. "He’s the first one in the classroom, the first one to ask questions, he’s one of the last guys to leave off the field and he’s first in every drill at practice. He sets the tempo each and every day and when the rest of the guys see that from a Pro Bowl player, they fall into line."
Johnson set career highs across the board and was the best receiver in football during the 2011 season, so he is certainly deserving of this honor.