New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady was named 2010 NFL MVP by the Associated Press on Sunday, earning all 50 votes. Brady becomes the first ever unanimous choice for the award since the AP began using a nationwide panel of media members who cover the league.
It's the second career MVP award for Brady, who also won it in 2007. That season, he earned 49 votes, with one vote going to Brett Favre. Brady was also named the AP Offensive Player of the Year last week.
The MVP award is hardly surprising considering Brady's season: he not only led the Patriots to an NFL best 14-2 record, but he also led the league in passing touchdowns (39) and QB rating (111.0) while throwing just four interceptions, a new career-low, highlighted by an NFL-record 355 consecutive throws without a pick. Brady was also eighth in passing yards, with 3900.
On Sunday, Brady was quick to credit his teammates for helping him win the MVP.
"It is always flattering to be chosen for such a prestigious award," Brady said. "But I also look at it as a team award, as nothing in football gets accomplished without the mental toughness and determination of every player and coach associated with that team.
"I am very humbled to be a part of an organization where winning comes first, and our goals are based around the success of the team."
Patriots owner Robert Kraft told the AP "Brady is so special because he's such a great leader and all the players can relate to him."
Of course, the MVP award is no consolation for Brady and the Patriots after their early playoff exit in the Divisional Round.
"When the season is over, 31 teams are disappointed about the outcome," he said. "There is only one champion, and nobody plays this game for second place. The desire and hunger is about winning, which to me never gets old. The motivation to get up and work every day for that goal is something that challenges us all."