QUARTERBACKS
Tom Brady: Was part of the MVP discussion for most of the season, and his play was worthy of such praise. Battled through two injuries (right elbow, left shoulder) but kept the team on the winning track. He threw 16 interceptions (against 47 touchdown passes) in 19 games. Grade: A.
Brian Hoyer: Completed the one pass he was allowed to attempt, for 22 yards. Even if the Patriots tender him at the highest level (a first-round pick in return if he signs with another club), he could generate interest. But the Patriots love him. Grade: Incomplete.
Ryan Mallett: Dressed for one game in his rookie season. Are the Patriots confident enough in him to let Hoyer go or to shop him? Not sure. Grade: Incomplete.
RUNNING BACKS
BenJarvus Green-Ellis: His statistics plummeted, but not all of it was his fault. The whole run-blocking apparatus took a step back with an average of 5.8 stuffed runs (1 yard or less outside short yardage) allowed per game, compared with 3.4 the previous season. An unrestricted free agent whom the Patriots will likely retain only at their price. Grade: C.
Danny Woodhead: Despite playing a similar amount of snaps, he saw his touches go from 131 to 95. For whatever reason, he seemed to lack the same explosion from a year ago, but he’s a good player to have around. Grade: C.
Stevan Ridley: Overcame an ankle injury at the end of training camp to take the lead role in the final three regular-season games thanks to his 5.1-yard average and all five of the team’s rushes over 20 yards. But two fumbles left him on the bench in the final two playoff games. Very promising. Grade: C-plus.
Shane Vereen: Had hamstring troubles soon after he reported to training camp and wasn’t fully healthy until it was too late. Showed promise with 19-yard touchdown run. Grade: Incomplete.
