Miller, Ryan among Player of the Month recipients
AFC
New England Patriots running back LeGarrette Blount was named the AFC Offensive Player of the Month for September. With the Patriots facing turmoil at the quarterback position, the team turned to the powerful runner, and he responded with 75 carries, 298 yards, and four scores in three wins. With a third-stringer at quarterback, Blount led the Patriots to a 27-0 shutout win over the Houston Texans in Week 3 with a 105-yard, two-touchdown performance. He leads the league in rushing.
Von Miller's torrid play carried over from last season, earning him AFC Defensive Player of the Month honors. The league leader in sacks brought down opposing quarterbacks five times in three games, including a three-sack game against the Indianapolis Colts in Week 2. He's also contributed 12 tackles, a batted pass, and a forced fumble for the undefeated Denver Broncos.
Baltimore Ravens kicker Justin Tucker is the AFC's Special Teams Player of the Month. The fifth-year pro is a perfect 9-for-9 in field goals and has yet to miss an extra point. He kicked four field goals, including a 53-yarder, to help the Ravens edge the Jacksonville Jaguars 19-17 in Week 3.
NFC
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan earned his third career NFC Player of the Month award for his play in September. Asked to air it out early and often this season, Ryan has had games of 334, 396, and 240 passing yards, throwing for seven touchdowns with just one interception. He led the Falcons to shootout wins over the Oakland Raiders and New Orleans Saints.
Fletcher Cox is working on earning his massive paycheck. After signing a six-year, $103-million deal in the offseason, the Philadelphia Eagles defensive tackle earned NFC Defensive Player of the Month honors. As the leader of the undefeated Eagles' defense, Fox contributed 11 tackles, three sacks, and a forced fumble in the first three weeks of the season.
Washington Redskins kicker Dustin Hopkins took home the NFC Special Teams Player of the Month award after nailing all 11 of his field-goal attempts through three weeks, including the game-winning 37-yard kick against the New York Giants in Week 3.