■ Least valuable player: Jermaine Cunningham, defensive end.
You’re almost stunned to learn that the 2010 second-round selection is not on injured reserve at this point. This may be a little unfair because we think he’s been dealing with an injury that hasn’t been brought to light, but he’s not listed on the injury report.
■ Best offensive player: Wes Welker, receiver.
Brady’s performance in the past two games and his 10 interceptions means there has been at least a little inconsistency on his part. Not so with Welker. He has been the best and most consistent player, and he is on pace to break the league record for receiving yards. How would the Patriots move the ball if he went down with an injury?
■ Worst offensive player: Chad Ochocinco, receiver.
We haven’t changed our tune that we think he’s going to bust out in the coming weeks. But considering his nine-catch production so far, two catches in a game would be considered breaking out.
■ Best defensive player: Andre Carter, end.
With all due respect to Vince Wilfork, Carter is the most valuable and best on defense so far. Who would generate any pass rush if Carter hadn’t been signed as a free agent? In our tabulations, Carter leads the team in sacks (6.5; officially, he has 4.5), quarterback knockdowns (13.5), total quarterback pressures (27.5), and stuffed runs (13.5). Carter’s 41 impact plays (pressures plus run stuffs) are almost double the next player’s (Wilfork with 24.5).
■ Worst defensive player: The safety next to Patrick Chung.
You can take your pick from Josh Barrett, Sergio Brown, and James Ihedigbo. They have been a revolving door of missed tackles, poor pass defense, and communication miscues.
■ Most improved player: Kyle Arrington, cornerback.
At one point in training camp, he was behind Devin McCourty, Leigh Bodden, and Ras-I Dowling. Now he is by far the best cornerback on the team and is tied for the NFL lead with five interceptions. He still has issues locating the ball when a player gets behind him, but it hasn’t killed them - yet.
■ Least improved player: McCourty, cornerback.
