Bears 'A Train' honored

Bears running back Anthony Thomas was named the NFL Rookie of the Year Tuesday.

Not even a starter at the beginning of the season, Thomas set a Bear rookie rushing record with 1,183 yards.

Thomas, a second-round draft pick out of Michigan, was a backup to James Allen at the start of the season. By midseason, he was an overpowering presence in the Bears' backfield, helping them to the NFC Central title.

"A lot of people didn't think I could do it," Thomas said. "But Chicago had faith in me and gave me an opportunity, and I tried to make the best of it."

He did precisely that, operating behind an improved line and keying a balanced attack that complemented a superb defense. Thomas rushed for 1,183 yards and seven touchdowns, with four 100-yard efforts. He compiled his impressive numbers despite missing two games with a hamstring injury and totaling three carries for 9 yards in the first two weeks of the season. But when he got on track, Thomas was showed why his nickname is "A-Train."

"It's a good offense for a running back," he said. "Our offensive line did a great job and our receivers always do a great job of blocking downfield to help me out. I think it always help when you're a part of a good team that is jelling at the right time."

IN OTHER NFL NEWS:

As expected, the family of the late Korey Stringer on Tuesday filed a $100 million wrongful death lawsuit against the Minnesota Vikings, claiming the team was negligent in the events that led to the death of the Pro Bowl tackle.

Family attorney Stanley M. Chesley announced in November that the lawsuit would be filed Tuesday.

Stringer died Aug. 1 in training camp due to complications from heat stroke. He was 27.

The lawsuit, filed by Stringer's widow, Kelci, and Stringer's parents, claims that the Vikings exhibited disregard for Stringer's safety.

The Minnnesota Occupational Safety and Health Division cleared the Vikings of any wrongdoing.

Former Vikings coach Dennis Green and Mike Tice, who replaced Green before the final game of the season and previously served as the offensive line coach, were among the individuals named in the lawsuit, which also claims that the team has not paid $8 million in non-guaranteed money to the family.

Article copyright REAL TIMES Inc.

Photograph (Anthony Thomas)