The real offseason hardware doesn't come out until January, but the 2011 NFL midseason awards are already coming out. No one should expect much from the Broncos in these awards, but there is at least one player worthy of consideration now and at the end of the season: rookie linebacker Von Miller.
Sports Illustrated's Peter King gives out his defensive rookie of the year award to Miller. After being selected with the o. 2 overall pick in 2011, Miller has lived up to expectations so far. He has 21 tackles, six sacks and two forced fumbles in seven games.
However, Miller is only the runner-up to San Francisco 49ers linebacker Aldon Smith in Adam Schefter's awards over at ESPN. Smith has 6-1/2 sacks.
Miller receives a consolation prize over at SB Nation, but that is just for overall rookie of the year. Cam Newton, the No. 1 overall pick, takes this one, and it would be hard to argue. One could argue that Miller is SB Nation's midseason defensive rookie of the year winner since he is the only defensive player listed.
SB Nation also handed out an award for worst team in the league and the Broncos take a consolation prize in that, too. Yeah, this year is not a good year for the Broncos.
For more on Miller and the Broncos, visit Mile High Report. Check out SB Nation NFL for more news and notes on the 2011 season.