With the second highest payroll in the league – a large chunk of that going to Tom Brady and Vince Wilfork – the Patriots spent a lot. Fortunately for their financial efficiency, they also won. A lot. A league-leading 14 victories vaulted New England into the top five, as did the club’s ongoing commitment to roster value. Under Bill Belichick, the Patriots have consistently: (A) pursued budget free agents; (B) traded players in their peak earning years; © gotten production out of young players such as rookie tight end Rob Gronkowski; (D) moved back in the draft to make said young players even more affordable. (Thirty-three players on New England’s roster have three seasons or fewer of NFL experience). Really, what else would you expect from a franchise that made the humble hoodie a fashion statement?

Penny-wise: Receiver Wes Welker ($1.9 million base salary) and jack-of-all-trades Danny Woodhead ($395,000 base salary) provide bang and scrappiness for the buck.