New England Patriots: Six Stars from Week 2 vs. Bills

Julian Edelman, WR

Sep 20, 2015; Orchard Park, NY, USA; New England Patriots wide receiver Julian Edelman (11) runs the ball after a catch during the second half against the Buffalo Bills at Ralph Wilson Stadium. Patriots defeat the Bills 40 to 32. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-USA TODAY Sports

With an incredible combination of speed, quickness and route running ability, Julian Edelman has grown into the single best slot receiver in the entire NFL. Edelman is not blessed with elite-level size, but he more than makes up for it with his quick feet and knack for getting open and making plays.

Edelman was a huge weapon for Brady in the passing game once again on Sunday, hauling in a team-leading 11 receptions for 97 yards. Edelman also hauled in two touchdowns passes from Brady; an eight-yard strike in the first quarter, and an impressive 22-yard catch and run where Edelman dove into the end zone just inside the left pylon.

Edelman opens up the entire Patriots’ offense by running his underneath routes with exact precision. The defense has to account for Edelman, because very few can defend him in man-to-man coverage. He has an incredibly specific skill-set that fits this offense very well. Brady and the Patriots’ coaching staff know how to use Edelman, and he knows how to make plays all over the field.

With another impressive performance, Edelman is truly becoming one of the elite wide receivers in the entire NFL.

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