ESPN: Ziggy Ansah Was Detroit Lions' 2015 MVP
By Dan Jenkins
@DanTJenkins
The Detroit Lions and their fans didn't have much to celebrate in 2015, but one bright spot turned out to be the play of defensive end Ezekiel Ansah.
Ansah's production skyrocketed in the absence of Ndamukong Suh, who signed with the Miami Dolphins during the offseason. ESPN's Michael Rothstein wrote about why Ansah was the Lions' most valuable player during a disappointing 7-9 season.
"He had a breakout season and has been one of the most consistent players on a very inconsistent Lions team. He is also one player who announced his set goals before the season (double-digit sacks) and then reached it with a team-high 14.5. Ansah forced four fumbles, recovered two and did most of his work while facing double-teams once reserved for Ndamukong Suh. The 2013 first-round pick made his first Pro Bowl and should receive All-Pro honors. He, along with Darius Slay and DeAndre Levy, are the future of Detroit's defense."
Despite all the flack that former executives Martin Mayhew and Tom Lewand took during their time with the Lions -- including criticism about their draft selections -- Ansah proves to be one of the few examples of the duo's good decisions.