The 2012 New England Patriots enjoyed an outstanding season, finishing with a 12-4 record and clinching their fourth consecutive AFC East title. Led by Tom Brady and the league's top-ranked offense, which set an NFL record for first downs in a season, the team advanced to their second straight AFC Championship game. The year was highlighted by a high-scoring attack and stellar performances from Pro Bowlers like Wes Welker, Rob Gronkowski, and Vince Wilfork. A first-round pick in the 2012 NFL Draft and a Super Bowl XLIX champion, Chandler Jones was a dominant defensive end for the New England Patriots who earned his first Pro Bowl selection and recorded 36 sacks during his four seasons with the franchise.