Bodden tied for the team lead in interceptions, and pushed teams to target Jonathan Wilhite and Darius Butler. Plus, moreso than the young guys, he brought a solid presence to the perimeter in the running game. His contract is up too, and he's likely to test the market after losing a good deal of money after being cut by Detroit.

S BRANDON MERIWEATHER: Meriweather still has issues mentally, blowing a couple coverages late in the year (particularly against Carolina), and taking by angles in run support (Ray Rice's 83-yard touchdown is the prime example).

But Meriweather also start to flash the play-making ability (5 INTs) that made him a first-round pick in the first place. And he made the Pro Bowler. To take next step, Meriweather will have to learn to harness his talent and play a more disciplined game.

PATRIOTS AWARDS
January 18: Comeback Player (Tom Brady)
January 19: Most Improved (Mike Wright)
January 20: Rookie of the Year (Sebastian Vollmer)
Yesterday: Special Teams Player (Kyle Arrington)
Today: Defensive Player (Vince Wilfork)
Tomorrow: Offensive Player
January 24: MVP