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Ranking the top Free Agent and Rookie additions at the Half Way Point

By Andrew Meyer

Sep 18, 2016; Foxborough, MA, USA; Miami Dolphins cornerback Byron Maxwell (41) attempts to tackle New England Patriots tight end Martellus Bennett (88) during the third quarter at Gillette Stadium. The New England Patriots won 31-24. Mandatory Credit: Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 18, 2016; Foxborough, MA, USA; Miami Dolphins cornerback Byron Maxwell (41) attempts to tackle New England Patriots tight end Martellus Bennett (88) during the third quarter at Gillette Stadium. The New England Patriots won 31-24. Mandatory Credit: Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 9, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; New England Patriots offensive guard Joe Thuney (62) after the game against the Cleveland Browns at FirstEnergy Stadium. The Patriots won 33-13. Mandatory Credit: Scott R. Galvin-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 9, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; New England Patriots offensive guard Joe Thuney (62) after the game against the Cleveland Browns at FirstEnergy Stadium. The Patriots won 33-13. Mandatory Credit: Scott R. Galvin-USA TODAY Sports /

5. Joe Thuney

While this may be a surprise to some people, for those who have watched games closely there is no doubt he has earned this ranking

Coming into the NFL as 3rd round pick from North Carolina State Thuney impressed from the moment he got onto the practice field. Rarely losing in 1-1 drills he quickly made a name for himself as a player to keep an eye on. During his first two preseason games he also was given the grade for top rookie Guard.

Throughout training camp Belichick constantly raved to the media about his work ethic and smarts. So far he is the only player to play 100% of the Patriots snaps this season. An example of what Thuney can do was evident on Legarrette Blount’s big run during the 4th quarter against the Texans

https://twitter.com/NFL/status/779154291474837504

On this play Thuney secures his block allowing Blount to take the ball outside and eventually all the way to the end zone. Without the great block the play likely would have gone for negative yards or at best a small gain. Thuney also has been pulled on many plays to lead the way for long Legarrette Blount runs, showing off his athletic ability that not all guards possess.

Given the fact the Thuney is only a rookie, every passing week he will learn more and continue to learn how to process the game. Expect him to get better.

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