The universal praise for Joey Boas has been so pronounced since he entered the league that at times the 22-year old's play actually goes underappreciated.
Then he accomplishes something like he did Sunday in New England and you're reminded of the level of greatness we get to watch week in and week out.
With his second quarter takedown of Tom Brady, Bosa recorded the most sacks by any player in NFL history over his first 20 games (19.0).
So just how impressive has he been?
Defensive Coordinator Gus Bradley has coached some of the game's top players on historic defenses over his 12-year NFL career, but says he's never seen anyone like the second-year defensive end.
"His athleticism is unbelievable now," he said. "I've not seen a guy his size and weight, and have the athleticism that he has. It's very, very natural to him. Things come fast. So if (Defensive Line Coach) Giff (Smith's) teaching him new technique or trying different things, hel'll work on it. He picks it up fast. Not only that, but it becomes second nature One of the things we talk about a lot is run, run, reach (for the ball). That's been really emphasized this year. And a game or two ago, he ran back and he went for it, and knocked it out of the quarterback's hand. And he said, 'I didn't even think about it. I just did it.' And I think that's what unique about Joey. You emphasize something and it becomes natural that fast for him."
His praise didn't stop there.
"There are a lot of things (that make him special), but football-wise, he's just unique. He is so structured and such a routine person. I mean, you know before the game he's going to be out there going through his routine in how he warms up. And I think that just places him in a good mindset. And there could be a group of people over here and they're talking about something, but his routine is far more important than that. He's just very structured. He knows what he wants to become and how he wants to help this team, and he's very driven. I mean, he sees through a straw now. He knows exactly what he wants to get done, and how to do it, and he's tremendous are far as being coachable."
The reigning NFL Rookie of the Year has taken his game to the next level this season as his 8.5 sacks rank fourth in the league and second in the AFC. He's also forced two fumbles, which is the second highest total in the NFL. Equally important is how stout Bosa is against the run. His 51 tackles are the second most on the team, and a total that is rarely seen from such a ferocious pass rusher. He's also leads the team with 11.5 tackles for loss according to coach's stats.
Yet as impressive as numbers may be, Head Coach Anthony Lynn credits Bosa for how he impacts the Chargers beyond at statsheet.
"He's very dynamic," he said. "I don't pay attention too much to stats this time of year, but I've got a good player. I'm glad he's on my team."
