Terrell Suggs had the most productive season of his career in 2011. The Ravens outside linebacker made 70 tackles, racked up a career-high 14 sacks and set a single-season franchise record with seven forced fumbles.
Suggs was awarded for his effort by being named the AP NFL Defensive Player of the Year at season's end.
So to what does Suggs chalk up his success in 2011? The NFL lockout.
"Last year, to be totally honest with you, I had the time of my life during the lockout and wasn't in a hurry to get back to work. I think that's why, in total, I ended up having the season that I did," Suggs told WHB-810 Radio in Kansas City. "A lot of guys ended up pushing themselves too hard and ended up getting hurt trying to get ready for mini-camps and OTAs. Fortunately we didn't have that burden on our shoulders and that's why I think I had a great year."
Suggs is in Kansas City this weekend to accept another piece of hardware: the 101 Awards' AFC Defensive Player of the Year award.