NFL Reveals AFC Players of the Month

The NFL announced its AFC Player of the Month for November, and they include a once and perhaps future MVP and a versatile defensive back on a rival team. They've had plenty of battles already, and they have plenty more to come.

AFC Players of the Month (November)@PatrickMahomes | @DerwinJames | @tbass_xvi pic.twitter.com/WoW0jcdyR5

— NFL (@NFL) December 1, 2022

On offense, Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes takes home the honors for a four-game run that's almost pedestrian by his lofty standard. The 2018 MVP threw for 1426 yards, nine touchdowns, and three interceptions while adding 161 rushing yards and another touchdown on the ground. Amazingly, Mahomes' 99.1 passer rating and 7.97 yards per attempt were below his career averages, but below average for him is exceptional for anyone else. With the AFC's top seed and the league leads in passing yards and touchdowns well within his grasp, he's a favorite to take home MVP this year.

On defense, Los Angeles Chargers safety Derwin James gets his flowers for his 37 tackles, two sacks, two forced fumbles and one interception. James led the Chargers to two hard-fought wins and a pair of heartbreaking losses in November, including a notable 30-27 defeat to Mahomes' Chiefs. After missing all of 2020 with an unfortunate knee injury, it's good to see James all the way back.

As for special teams, Buffalo Bills kicker Tyler Bass gets the nod for his 44 points on 12 field goals and eight extra points. Bass missed only two kicks all month, helping the Bills to a solid 26.5 points per game over the past four weeks.

Photo Credit: © Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports