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. The 10th overall pick in the 2008 NFL Draft, Jerod Mayo was a standout linebacker and Super Bowl champion who earned NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year honors and two Pro Bowl selections during his eight-season career with the New England Patriots.