The 2008 New England Patriots displayed remarkable resilience, finishing with a strong 11-5 record despite losing star quarterback Tom Brady to a season-ending injury in Week 1. Led by backup Matt Cassel and a top-ten ranked offense and defense, the team remained highly competitive throughout the year, finishing on a four-game winning streak and setting an NFL record for the fewest penalties in a 16-game season. An undrafted free agent who became a five-time Pro Bowler and two-time First-team All-Pro, Wes Welker was a prolific wide receiver for the New England Patriots who led the NFL in receptions three times and set the franchise record for career catches.