Brady, Harrison, Royal capture AFC monthly honors

Sports Network | October 30, 2009

New York, NY (Sports Network) - Patriots quarterback Tom Brady, Steelers linebacker James Harrison and Broncos kick returner Eddie Royal have been selected as the AFC's top players for the month of October.

Brady took the offensive award after helping New England to a 3-1 record during the month. In Week 6, the QB set an NFL second with five touchdown passes in one quarter against Tennessee. He finished the month with a 121.7 passer rating and 12 TDs compared to two interceptions. It is the third monthly award in his 10-year career.

Harrison, who earned his second career defensive award, registered 25 tackles and seven sacks during Pittsburgh's 4-0 month. The reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year had three sacks and forced a fumble in Week 5 against Detroit.

Royal won the special teams award after amassing 292 return yards for Denver, which went 3-0. In Week 6 against the Chargers, Royal became the 11th player in league history to score a touchdown on a kick return and a punt return in the same game. It is Royal's first month honor.