NFL Announces AFC Players of the Month

The NFL revealed its AFC Players of the Month for September Thursday morning, and they highlight three players who have dominated on contending teams. Baltimore Ravens Quarterback Lamar Jackson wins the offensive award for a blazing start to the season that includes a league-leading 10 passing touchdowns and 119.0 passer rating. Jackson has been scintillating in his two wins against the New York Jets and New England Patriots, but he arguably had his best game in defeat against the Miami Dolphins, throwing for 318 yards and running for 119 while totalling four touchdowns in the 42-38 loss. His 749 passing yards and 243 rushing yards put him on pace for career highs in both categories this season. Jackson previously won the MVP in 2019, and he is off to a great start to do it again in 2022. 

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Linebacker Melvin Ingram wins the defensive award for his contributions to the Miami Dolphins' undefeated start to the season. Ingram's two sacks, three tackles for loss, and two forced fumbles don't jump out on the stat sheet, but a pair of critical plays in big games certainly do: Ingram recovered a fumble for a touchdown in a 20-7 thrashing of the New England Patriots, and he forced a fumble that he recovered himself deep in enemy territory in a 21-19 win over the Buffalo Bills. Ingram's splash plays in meaningful wins likely elevated his profile above fellow pass rushers Jerry Hughes, Alex Highsmith, Khalil Mack, and Deatrich Wise Jr. in the AFC, who all tallied 4.0 or more sacks for losing teams.

On special teams, Kansas City Chiefs punter Tommy Townsend gets the nod for his impressive 55.6 average on 11 punts. He booted an incredible 74-yard punt in a 27-24 victory over the Los Angeles Chargers.

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