While NFL Betting odds might have the Patriots outside their usual spot as Super Bow favorites, the team has had another outstanding season and is on the cusp of getting a bye for the 10th-straight season.
Here are the individuals that have stood out most this season:
Offensive Player of the Year – Julian Edelman
It’s hard to imagine where the Patriots offense would be if not for Edelman toughing out numerous injuries to pick up 97 catches on the season. He needs just nine more catches to break his career high. In a season filled with offensive injuries and turnover, the one constant has been Edelman, who has delivered big plays and clutch catches again and again.
Defensive Player of the Year – Kyle Van Noy
Van Noy continued to build off his breakout 2018 season and cemented his place as one of the key defenders on the Patriots stacked defense. Playing primarily off the left defensive edge, Van Noy is strong and athletic in setting the edge but also has an array of athletic pass rush moves that have him leading the team with 6.5 sacks.
Rookie of the Year – Jake Bailey
Bailey has been arguably the best punter in the league as a rookie, setting a team record for punts inside the opponent’s 20-yard-line. Add in that he’s handled kickoffs since Stephen Gostkowski was lost and Bailey is contributing in multiple ways. In a year when the offense has been inconsistent, Bailey’s punting has helped immensely with field position and has translated into real points on the scoreboard.
Most Valuable Player – Stephon Gilmore
Gilmore has been the best cornerback in the league this year, currently tied for the league lead in interceptions and taking on the top opposing target every week. Gilmore has ascended to the point where he can match up with the best receivers in the game and remove them from being a factor. His effect on the defense has had a trickle-down effect on the pass rush as well, as the Patriots put together perhaps their best defensive season in history. That’s in large part due to a shutdown corner like Gilmore how makes everything easier on everyone else.