LeGarrette Blount named AFC Offensive Player of the Month
The NFL's leading rusher earns an accolade for his efforts.
With just shy of 300 rushing yards, LeGarrette Blount is not only the NFL’s leading rusher, but was just named the AFC Offensive Player of the Month.
Blount is coming off back-to-back monster performances against the Dolphins (123 yards) and Texans (105 yards, 2 touchdowns), and the NFL recognized him for being a big part of the success in a Patriots offense that has been without Tom Brady and Rob Gronkowski to start the season.
According to the Patriots, his four rushing touchdowns through three games match Marion Butts (’94) and Corey Dillon (’05) for the most in franchise history.
He will undoubtedly slow down as his role reduces with the return of Brady, Gronkowski and Dion Lewis, Blount’s current pace has him on track to accrue a staggering 1,600 rushing yards. Though he played in just 12 games last season, this would more than double his 2015 output.
And yet, with all of this acclaim for Blount, it is of critical importance that the play of his offensive line does not go unnoticed.
Rookie Joe Thuney has made for a fantastic plug-and-play addition at left guard, while Marcus Cannon has bounced back in spectacular fashion in relief of Sebastian Vollmer. Shaq Mason and David Andrews look more capable in year two, and Nate Solder has been his usual stout self.
Let’s not forget the oft-forgotten lineman while honoring Blount, like the always impressive special teamers, they are the unsung heroes of the 2016 Patriots.
Conversation
This discussion has ended. Please join elsewhere on Boston.com