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ESPYS 2012: Aaron Rodgers Beats Out Calvin Johnson, Others For Best NFL Player

Quarterback Matthew Stafford wasn't the only Detroit Lions player up for an ESPY last night, but he was the only player to win one of the awards. Wide receiver Calvin Johnson was up for the Best NFL Player award, but Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers took it home for the second year in a row.

In addition to Rodgers and Johnson, the following players were up for the Best NFL Player award: New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees, New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski and Baltimore Ravens linebacker Terrell Suggs.

Johnson was looking to become only the second wide receiver to win this particular ESPY. Larry Fitzgerald won it in 2009, but every other year it's gone to a running back or quarterback. Johnson was also looking to become the first Lions player to win it since Barry Sanders took it home in 1998. Sanders also won the award in 1995.

Detroit Tigers pitcher Justin Verlander was up for Best MLB Player and Best Male Athlete, but those awards were won by Josh Hamilton and LeBron James, respectively.

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