Tag Archives: defense

Patriots 53-Man Roster Projection: Pre-Training Camp Edition

July 21, 2019 Bill Bodell Leave a comment

The start of Patriots Training Camp is just days away and there has been a lot of change in the team’s roster than how it looked in February when the team won their sixth Lombardi trophy. The Patriots have a lot of depth throughout the roster and should be a couple compelling battles throughout camp for a spot on the final 53-man roster.

Quarterbacks (3)- Tom Brady, Brian Hoyer, Jarred Stidham: The Patriots selected Stidham in the fourth round of this year’s NFL Draft and don’t think they’d be comfortable having him as the only option behind Tom Brady, especially with veteran Brian Hoyer on the roster.

NCAA Football: Peach Bowl-Auburn vs Central Florida — via theathletic.com

Running Back (6)- Sony Michel, James White, Damien Harris, Rex Burkhead, Brandon Bolden, James Develin (Fullback): The first three guys listed and Develin are locks to make the roster and expect all three to contribute this year, and with his contract I expect Bolden to be a lock as well and be a key contributor on special teams. The only potential question when it comes to this grouping is Rex Burkhead, who the team could choose to cut or trade due to his injury history and depth at the position, but expect the team to hold on to.

Wide Receiver (5)- Julian Edelman, N’Keal Harry, Phillip Dorsett, Braxton Berrios, Dontrelle Inman, Demaryius Thomas (PUP): The wide receiver battle in training camp and preseason is going to be an interesting one to watch as really no one besides Edelman and Harry are true locks to make the roster. Dorsett has been a solid contributor and a very consistent player when given the opportunity the past two seasons and expect him to make the team. After that the team could go in several different directions. Berrios had an impressive minicamp and hopes to become the heir slot receiver to Julian Edelman that the Patriots have struck out on finding the past few off-season’s with guys like Austin Carr and Riley McCarron. Inman didn’t have a good minicamp but has been a steady veteran his whole career and could add some size to the Patriots receiving core. The team could keep both, one, or neither Berrios or Inman and instead keep a player like Maurice Harris who had a good minicamp or Jakobi Meyers, who the team signed as an undrafted rookie free agent. Demaryius Thomas has reportedly been making positive strides towards being ready to play week one but I expect the veteran wideout to be placed on the Physically Unable to Perform list to start the seaosn to fully recover from a torn achillies he suffered in December. Also, maybe a hopeful and potential Josh Gordon reinstatement at some point?

Tight End (2)-Matt LaCosse, Ryan Izzo, Ben Watson (Suspended): The position with the most change following Rob Gronkowski’s retirement. Izzo has no NFL experience and LaCosse has virtually no experience, and with Watson being suspended the first four games for a PED violation I don’t see the tight end position being one to have any impact during that time.

Offensive Line (8)-Isaiah Wynn, Joe Thuney, David Andrews, Shaq Mason, Marcus Cannon, Ted Karras, Yodny Cajuste, Hjalte Frodholdt: 2018 first round pick Isaiah Wynn is likely to fill the big shoes of Trent Brown who signed with the Raiders this offseason. Wynn is recovering from an achillies injury he suffered that forced him to miss all of last season. Karras and Froholdt both have the ability to play guard and under center, while Cajuste is likely to be the teams backup tackle. Cole Croston is a name who could also make this list depending on how many lineman the team decides to keep.

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Defensive Line (8)-Adam Butler, Danny Shelton, Deatrich Wise, Michael Bennett, Chase Winovich, Mike Pennel, Lawrence Guy, John Simon: I loved the Patriots pick of Chase Winovich, who was great at Michigan both against the run and as a pass rusher despite being a little undersized. Both Winovich and Wise should be solid contributors at defensive end opposite Michael Bennett, who the team acquired this offseason in a trade with the Eagles.

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Linebacker (5)-Donta’ Hightower, Kyle Van Noy, Ja’Whaun Bentley, Jamie Collins, Elandon Roberts: This is the best the Patriots linebacking core has been in several years entering the season. Kyle Van Noy had a fantastic 2018 season and looks to continue that in 2019. The team brought back Jamie Collins this offseason after spending the last few seasons in Cleveland and he reportedly looked great during minicamp. Bentley was the star of training camp and preseason last year and got off to a good start in the regular season before suffering a torn biceps in week 3 that ended his season. If Bentley can get back to the form he was showing last year he could be in line for a great season.

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Cornerback (7)-Stephon Gilmore, Jason McCourty, J.C. Jackson, Joejuan Williams, Jonathan Jones, Duke Dawson, Keion Crossen: The best depth the Patriots have by far is at the cornerback position. Keeping seven corners is a lot but you can never have enough good corners in the NFL. I can’t wait to see the progression of J.C. Jackson and how good of a corner he could be building off his great rookie season. The selection of Williams in the second round of this year’s draft was somewhat surprising given the depth the team had at corner; but Williams is a big, physical corner who can also lineup at Safety and also be a potential Stephon Gilmore replacement in the future with his cap number being over $18 and $19 million in 2020 and 2021 or if the team decides to not bring him back when his contract is up after 2021 with the young pieces they have at the position. The Patriots may have the best cornerback group in the NFL.

Safety (4)-Devin McCourty, Patrick Chung, Duron Harmon, Nate Ebner: Ebner gets the nod over Terrence Brooks and Obi Melifonwu due to his special teams play. Melifonwu has a lot of potential as a former second round pick just two years ago and the team could see enough promise and potential in him to keep him on the roster.

Special Teams (5)-Stephen Gostkowski, Jake Bailey, Joe Cardona, Matthew Slater, Brandon King: At one point Ryan Allen was actually in the conversation for Super Bowl MVP against the Rams, but with the Patriots moving up in the draft to select Bailey there must be something that they see in Bailey that they like. Releasing Allen would also save the team $1.4 million in cap space.

AFC, New England Patriots, NFL

2019 Patriots 7-Round Mock Draft

April 16, 2019 Bill Bodell Leave a comment

The NFL Draft is just over a week away on April 25th and the Patriots have had a busy offseason that included the departures of key pieces of their Super Bowl winning team such as Rob Gronkowski, Trey Flowers, Trent Brown, and Chris Hogan. The Patriots currently have 12 selections and would expect them to make several trades during the draft.

This seven-round mock draft was conducted on FanSpeak.com using their mock draft simulator. I used the ‘Big Board’ rankings done by Matt Miller of Bleacher Report, with ‘NFL Mock’ for team needs, on the difficult draft setting. Some players may be ranked higher in other rankings and projections and post combine.

Round 1 pick 32: Dexter Lawrence, Defensive Lineman, Clemson

Dexter Lawrence was a big contributor to the vaunted Clemson defensive line despite missing time at the end of the season due to a PED suspension. Lawrence has great size at 6’4 340lbs and could be the force in the middle of the line the Patriots defense was desperately needing at times during the 2018 season. Lawrence could step in and be a starter and key contributor right away.

Round 2 pick 56: Deebo Samuel, Wide Receiver, South Carolina

As I write this the Patriots just signed Demaryius Thomas, who I HATE as a player but like the move due to the Patriots current receiving core. Even with the signing of Thomas I would like to see the Pats add a WR early and Samuel has the ability to play both the slot and outside receiver positions and play special teams. It’s still unsure the status of Josh Gordon and if he will be eligible to play next year, and after losing Chris Hogan to the Carolina Panthers depth and talent at the wide receiver position is a major area of need. New England held an official private workout with Samuel last week where Samuel later posted a video on Instagram outside Gillette Stadium saying “Hey Billy. I’ll see you in a month, my man,” which could mean there’s interest on both sides and the private workout and meeting went well.

Samuel GamecocksOnline — via gamecocksonline.com

Round 2 pick 64: Zach Allen, EDGE Rusher, Boston College

The Patriots added Michael Bennett in a trade with the Eagles, and also lost arguably their best defensive player in Trey Flowers to the Lions which makes defensive end still an area of need. Allen has good size that gives him versatility to play the interior and exterior of the defensive line and plays well as a pass rusher and run stopper. Allen had great production with 15 tackles for loss in 2018.

Round 3 pick 73: Jace Sternberger, Tight End, Texas A&M

The Patriots offense took a massive blow with the retirement of Rob Gronkowski. I liked the signing of Austin-Sefarian Jenkins but would still like to see the tight end position addressed during the draft. Jace Sternberger had a great 2018 season, his first at Texas A&M after transferring from JUCO, with 48 catches for 832 yards and 10 touchdowns. Sternberger only had one year of production which could be a red flag to teams, and is essentially just a receiving tight end and doesn’t offer much as a blocker. Sternberger’s size and skill set would help the Patriots offense stretch the field. Sternberger is also a player who had a private workout with the Patriots.

Round 3 Pick 97: Taylor Rapp, Safety, Washington

I would be surprised if Rapp was available at this point in the draft, but if he is would be a great pick for New England. Rapp is a similar type player to Patrick Chung, who just signed a contract extension with the Patriots, as someone who can cover backs and tight ends in the passing game, and can also play close to the line of scrimmage and is good in run support. Rapp is someone who could contribute now as well as sit and learn and be the safety of the future for the Patriots.

Round 3 pick 101: Jarrett Stidham, Auburn, Quarterback

Stidham is one of several quarterbacks the Patriots have had in for private workouts. I would love for the Patriots to be able to take West Virginia QB Will Grier, but he was already off the board in this simulation. Stidham had a good 2017 but struggled some in 2018, but has good different skill sets with his mobility, quick release, and being able to throw on the run with good accuracy. Skills that Josh McDaniels seems to value when drafting quarterbacks, and could be someone McDaniels likes as a potential QB of the future for the likely head coach of the future.

Round 4 pick 134: David Sills, West Virginia, Wide Receiver

Sills is a big body, outside receiver who was a great red zone threat during his time at West Virginia. Sills was a second team All-American in 2017 and led the country with 18 touchdown receptions, and was a third team All-American in 2018 finishing second in the country with 15 touchdown receptions. Sills is a true down field receiver who could help stretch the Patriots offense and be a valuable piece in the red zone.

Sills smokingmusket.com — via smokingmusket.com

Round 6 pick 205: Bryce Love, Stanford, Running Back

Running back is not an area of need for the Patriots after selecting Sony Michel in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft and having backs James White and Rex Burkhead on the roster, but being able to grab someone like Love at this point in the draft would be a steal. Love was a Heisman finalist several times during his years at Stanford and put up great numbers before tearing his ACL on the final play of his college career. The Patriots could select Love and place him on Injured Reserve to let him fully recover and team up with Michel to be be a part of the offense for the 2020 season and beyond.

Love Yahoo Sports — via sports.yahoo.com

Round 7 pick 239: Mitch Hyatt, Clemson, Offensive Tackle

Hyatt was a four year starter at Clemson and was a part of two National Championship winning teams and was the anchor of Clemson’s line during that time. The Patriots lost LaAdrian Waddle and Trent Brown in free agency and could use depth at tackle, especially with last years first round pick Isaiah Wynn set to be the starter after missing all of last season with a torn Achilles.

Hyatt greenvilleonline — via greenvilleonline.com

Round 7 pick 243: Alex Bars, Guard, Notre Dame

Bars missed most of the 2018 season after suffering an ACL and MCL injury against Stanford. Bars has good size at 6’6 315lbs and could give flexibility at both guard and tackle.

Round 7 pick 246: Kingsley Keke, Defensive Line, Texas A&M

Keke has the ability and skill set to go with his size to play both defensive tackle and defensive end, after dropping 20 pounds to be more of an edge player. Keke had a breakout senior year with 51 tackles, 11 tackles for loss and 7 sacks. Keke is another player who had a private workout with the Patriots and provides the versatility that the Patriots value.

Round 7 pick 252: Justin Hollins, Edge Rusher, Oregon

I don’t see the Patriots using all 12 draft picks that they currently have and could package some picks to move around the board, but projecting as they currently stand the Patriots add depth at pass rusher with their second of four seventh round picks. Hollins has good size at 6’4 240lbs with good speed for his size that would allow him to play special teams and potentially be a situational pass rusher.

AFC, New England Patriots, NFL

2019 Patriots 7-Round Mock Draft: Pre-Combine Edition

February 23, 2019 Bill Bodell Leave a comment

With the NFL Combine set to start February 26th and compensatory picks being handed out it’s time to look at what the Patriots can add in the draft to replace some pieces they will lose in free agency. The Patriots currently have 12 draft picks and would expect them to package picks to move around the draft board, but projected as if they would use all 12 picks.

Round 1 pick 32: Dexter Lawrence, Defensive Lineman, Clemson

Defensive tackle was the Patriots most inconsistent position last season, with both Malcolm Brown and Danny Shelton having their share of struggles and healthy scratches from the 46-man game day roster. Brown and Shelton are both set to be free agents and wouldn’t expect New England to re-sign either leaving defensive tackle an even more important position to address in the draft.

Dexter Lawrence was a big contributor to the vaunted Clemson defensive line despite missing time at the end of the season due to a PED suspension. Lawrence has great size at 6’4 340lbs and could be the force in the middle of the line the Patriots defense was desperately needing at times during the 2018 season. If Lawrence is still on the board at pick 32 the Patriots should run to the stage to select him and not give any second thoughts

Round 2 pick 56: Riley Ridley, Wide Receiver, Georgia

The Patriots receiver depth chart for 2019 is currently Julian Edelman and Braxton Berrios. Wide Receiver is a major area of need for the Patriots as I expect Chris Hogan to depart in free agency and would expect the team to try to re-sign Phillip Dorsett or Cordarrelle Patterson to cheap deals if given the opportunity.

Adding Riley Ridley would give Tom Brady an elite young talent who can play both inside and outside and someone who has great route running ability. to go along with size at 6’2 200lbs. Ridley’s brother Calvin, first round pick of the Atlanta Falcons in 2018, had a great rookie season and I could see Riley emulating that success in the Patriots offense. Even with free agency and the potential of a Josh Gordon return it would be smart for the Patriots to address the wide receiver position early in the draft, and selecting Ridley would give the a young receiver that the team could build around in the future and give the team another Georgia product after selecting both Isaiah Wynn and Sony Michel in the first round last year.

Round 2 pick 64: Jaylon Ferguson, Edge Rusher, Louisiana Tech

The Patriots could face a huge blow to their defense if they lose Trey Flowers in free agency. Even if they get Flowers back the team should look to add a pass rusher with Adrian Clayborn and Derek Rivers not meeting expectations.

in 2018, Jaylon Ferguson racked up 17.5 sacks his senior season and had 45 total sacks over his four seasons at LA. Tech, setting an NCAA record. Drafting Ferguson will give the Patriots a true pass rushed opposite Flowers (assuming he’s back) that they desperately need. It wouldn’t be surprising to see Ferguson end up as a first round draft pick, especially with a strong showing at the combine.

Round 3 pick 73: Jace Sternberger, Tight End, Texas A&M

It seems more and more likely that Rob Gronkowski will be returning which will be great for the Patriots offense. Even if Gronk does indeed come back and not retire addressing the tight end position is something the Patriots need to do this draft class, with Dwayne Allen and his $7.3 million cap hit likely to be gone and getting no production from both Allen and Jacob Hollister over the past two seasons adding a backup tight end is a must.

Jace Sternberger had a great 2018 season, his first at Texas A&M after transferring from JUCO, with 48 catches for 832 yards and 10 touchdowns. Sternberger only had one year of production which could be a red flag to teams, and is essentially just a receiving tight end and doesn’t offer much as a blocker. Adding Sternberger would give the Patriots offense someone who could stretch the field and take away some double teams from Gronkowski when on the field at the same time and become a formidable passing option in the Patriots offense.

Round 3 pick 97: Dakota Allen, Linebacker, Texas Tech

Kyle Van Noy had a fantastic 2018 for the Patriots and the team will be getting Ja’Whaun Bentley back after missing the 2018 season after being placed on Injured Reserve, which will help the linebacking core in 2019, but you can never have enough young, versatile talent at the linebacker position.

Former “Last Chance U” star Dakota Allen made the most of the second chance he got at Texas Tech, picking up 162 tackles for loss with 11.5 tackles for loss over two seasons. Allen could fall in the draft due to some red flags that led to his dismissal at Texas Tech his first time around, but his play on the field and no off-field issues following his return to Tech should lead to Allen being taken in the mid-rounds of the draft.

Round 3 pick 101: Isaiah Buggs, Alabama, Defensive Lineman

With the Patriots having several different holes to fill adding a versatile defensive lineman like Buggs, who can play both at tackle and end with his size at 6’5 290lbs. During his senior season at Alabama Buggs had 9.5 sacks and 13.5 tackles for loss. Adding Buggs would give the Patriots depth along the whole defensive line and someone who can contribute as a rookie.

Round 4 pick 134: Hunter Renfrow, Wide Receiver, Clemson

The Patriots take their second wide receiver of the draft taking one of Clemson’s all-time leading receivers Hunter Renfrow. Renfrow worked out of the slot during his time at Clemson catching passes from DeShaun Watson, Kelly Bryant and Trevor Lawrence and constantly finding ways to get open and make big plays. Renfrow could be in line to be the next great Patriots slot receiver, as well as be a contributing piece to the Patriots offense right away.

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Round 6 pick 205: Amani Hooker, Safety, Iowa

With both Devin McCourty and Patrick Chung set to turn 32 before the start of the 2019 season the Patriots could look to add another safety to groom and even stash on practice squad if needed. The Patriots picked up former Raiders second round pick Obi Melifonwu during the season and played limited snaps on special teams and could have a larger role on defense in 2019 and going forward. Hooker has versatility being able to play both safety and cornerback who has great ball skills and was a second team All-American in 2018.

Round 7 pick 239: Bryce Love, Running Back, Stanford

Round 7 pick 243: Justin Hollins, Edge Rusher, Oregon

Round 7 pick 246: Alex Bars, Guard, Notre Dame

Bars missed most of the 2018 season after suffering an ACL and MCL injury against Stanford. Bars has good size at 6’6 315lbs and could give flexibility at both guard and tackle.

Round 7 pick 252: Clifton Duck, Cornerback, Appalachian State

Cornerback is probably the strongest position the Patriots have and one that they shouldn’t need to address during the draft. Eric Rowe is set to become a free agent and likely won’t be back, while both Jason McCourty and Jonathan Jones are all set to become free agents who I expect to be back with the team, especially with Jones being a restricted free-agent. The Patriots will also be getting second-round pick Duke Dawson back who missed all of last year due to injury. For some reason if the Patriots lose either McCourty or Jones, or both they could look to add a corner later in the draft. Duck doesn’t have great size at only 5’10 175lbs, but has great ball skills having 12 interceptions over three years at Appalachian State and projects as a slot corner at the next level.

AFC, New England Patriots, NFL

Preseason Game Four Preview: The Battle For A Roster Spot

August 30, 2018 Bill Bodell Leave a comment

The Patriots will take on the Giants tonight in the teams preseason finale before starting up the regular season. Before the start of the regular season comes roster cut-downs, which takes place Saturday, where the Patriots have to cut down the 90-man roster down to 53. The team has already made some cuts releasing wide receiver Eric Decker and safety Eddie Pleasant earlier in the week. It is assumed that most, if not all starters will not play tonight leaving bottom of the roster and roster bubble guys to show what they can do, and make one final push to make the final 53-man roster.

NFL: AUG 09 Preseason - Redskins at Patriots — via gettyimages.com

Riley McCarron and Devin Lucien

The Patriots wide receiving corps has gotten a lot of attention this summer as it is one of the weakest the team has had in recent years. With Julian Edelman slated to miss the first four weeks of the season due to suspension, the Patriots seem to only have three wide receivers who are locks to make the roster and contribute early on in the season in Chris Hogan, Phillip Dorsett, and Cordarrelle Patterson. Only having three wide receivers is weak enough as it is, but having Dorsett as your number two and Patterson at your three is a sign of concern for many different reasons. I find it hard to believe that the Patriots would only carry three receivers and would add a fourth if not strictly for depth purposes incase of injury and expect that battle to come down to Riley McCarron and Devin Lucien. Both guys had good training camps, but have gotten limited action in the preseason so far. Lucien had a good performance against the Redskins having four catches for 71 yards, and then had no catches in the following two games in very limited action. Meanwhile, McCarron had no receptions against Washington and only one catch against Philadelphia and then four catches for 49 yards against Carolina and had gotten some snaps on the field with Brady, as well as contributed as a returner on special teams. If it comes down to these two I would expect McCarron to make the roster due to his special teams contributions, as well as a better fit into the offense as a true slot receiver. I would also expect the Patriots to try moving rookie Braxton Berrios to the practice squad to develop more after not playing in the previous two preseason games.

Keionta Davis

The defensive line is one of the biggest strengths and area of depth that the Patriots have, which makes it even harder fight for Davis to earn a roster spot. Davis has seen a lot of reps with the first team defense during the preseason as a situational pass rusher. Davis shined against the Eagles picking up 1.5 sacks and applying constant pressure. Davis was then quiet the following week against the Panthers where the Patriots seemed to struggle in every area of the game. In a game where I would not expect to see Trey Flowers or Adrian Clayborn, Davis should get plenty of opportunity to show why he is deserving of a roster spot.

Cyrus Jones and Jason McCourty

By now everyone knows the struggle Cyrus Jones had his rookie season and then tore his ACL prior to the start of his second season. Jones got his first action of the preseason last week where he contributed as on defense and as a returner. The talent is still there with Jones and has yet to be seen as both a corner and returner and could be too early to give up on the third year player. McCourty was one of the teams big offseason acquisitions, and has looked terrible up to this point in the preseason. After getting beat for a bad touchdown against the Eagles in week 2, McCourty played at both corner and safety last week against Carolina where he again struggled. As it looks McCourty might have a better shot at making the roster as a safety rather than a corner due to the depth the team has and how bad he has looked there. I want to see both of these guys get a lot of reps tonight as I believe they are potentially fighting against one another for a spot on the final roster. Something that wouldn’t be surprising is if the Patriots did release McCourty prior to the final 53-man roster cutdown and then brought him back at a lower salary.

Offensive Line

With the news of first round pick Isaiah Wynn tearing his Achilles and likely being out for the year the Patriots are going to have to look elsewhere to fill the fourth offensive tackle position. The team has a number of journeyman and castoff veterans who are now fighting for that spot including Ulrick John, Matt Tobin, Cole Croston and Luke Bowanko. I give the upper edge to John, who has been a veteran in the league and had flexibility to be able to play both inside and outside on the offensive line. Croston spent time with the Patriots last year and due to familiarity between him and the team could earn the spot.

AFC, New England Patriots, NFL

Patriots 53-Man Roster Projection

August 22, 2018 Bill Bodell Leave a comment

The Patriots have played two preseason games so far and have had several players stand out in an attempt to earn a spot on the final 53-man roster. Many things can change over the next few weeks and the final two preseason games, but here is my projection for the Patriots week 1 53-man roster.

Quarterback: (2) Tom Brady, Brian Hoyer

No surprised here with only Brady and Hoyer making the roster at quarterback. Etling hasn’t shown near enough to be considered for a spot on the roster, but would expect the Patriots to keep Etling around on the practice squad if no one else claims him.

Runningback: (6) James White, Rex Burkhead, Sony Michel, Jeremy Hill, Brandon Bolden, James Develin

Another position group with no real surprises. At this point the biggest question at the running back position is the health of first round pick Sony Michel, who hasn’t practiced in about two weeks with a knee injury. Jeremy Hill has far outplayed Mike Gillislee in the first two preseason games and looks deserving of a roster spot.

Wide Receiver: (5) Julian Edelman*, Chris Hogan, Phillip Dorsett, Cordarrelle Patterson, Matthew Slater, Eric Decker

This is the weakest wide receiving core the Patriots have had in some time. Outside of Chris Hogan and Matthew Slater, who is used mostly on special teams, there is no real lock for anyone else to make the roster with Edelman suspended for the first four weeks of the season. Dorsett was on the team last year and has gotten reps with the first team during the preseason and would expect to make the team. Patterson has shown some flashes on offense, as well as offers value in special teams as a returner. The last receiver spot will likely come down to Eric Decker or Kenny Britt. Decker has struggled in the preseason and training camp, but I give him the edge over Britt due to the fact that Britt hasn’t been able to get on the field due to injuries. Devin Lucien, Braxton Berrios and Riley McCarron are names to watch for who could make a push for a roster spot during the final two preseason games.

Tight End: (3) Rob Gronkowski, Jacob Hollister, Dwayne Allen

No real surprises here as I believe all three of these players are locks to make the roster. The only way I could see this changing would be if the Patriots want to save money and get rid of Dwayne Allen and his $5 million salary and cap hit.

Offensive Lineman: (8) Trent Brown, Joe Thuney, David Andrews, Shaq Mason, Marcus Cannon, La’Adrian Waddle, Ted Karras, Ulrick John

The loss of first round pick Isaiah Wynn hurts the depth of the offensive line group, as it was beginning to look like Wynn was going to contribute early for the Patriots. Trent Brown has looked phenomenal so far and looks like he could be an upgrade to Nate Solder, who the Patriots lost in free agency. I believe the first seven guys listed are locks as they were all members of the team last year outside of Brown. Ulrick John has looked decent in limited action so far in the preseason and offers flexibility being able to play at tackle and the interior of the offensive line. Guys like Cole Croston and Luke Bowanko could be in play for the final offensive lineman spot.

Defensive End: (5) Trey Flowers, Adrian Clayborn, Derek Rivers, Deatrich Wise Jr., Keionta Davis

Clayborn, Rivers and Wise have all played really well so far in preseason and throughout training camp and are all locks to make the roster, as well as Trey Flowers. Keionta Davis is someone who Belichick seems to like and has spoken very highly of. Davis played a lot in the Patriots second preseason game against the Philadelphia Eagles, and did a good job of generating pressure. Davis has the flexibility to play inside and outside and generate pressure from both, and has an opportunity to be a name people wouldn’t expect to make the 53-man roster.

Defensive Tackle: (4) Danny Shelton, Malcolm Brown, Adam Butler, Lawrence Guy

Shelton has looked great so far this summer and looks to be a big contributor to the Patriots defense. Both Shelton and Brown are in the final year of their contracts and look to have big years. Both Butler and Guy played well last year and offer flexibility being able to play all over the defensive line, with Butler being more of a pass rusher and Guy more of a run stopper. Vincent Valentine is currently on the roster bubble and could push someone like Keionta Davis off the roster.

Linebacker: (6) Dont’a Hightower, Kyle Van Noy, Marquis Flowers, Elandon Roberts, Ja’Whaun Bentley, Brandon King

Hightower and Van Noy were obvious locks going into the season and have played well in limited action so far. The name of the preseason Ja’Whaun Bentley also looks like a lock after playing fantastic in the Patriots two preseason games so far, has been all over the field and returned a fumble for a touchdown against the Eagles. Bentley has been getting reps with the first team defense and if he continues to improve and translate his preseason success to the regular season will be a big contributor to the Patriots defense. Flowers and Roberts have been apart of the Patriots defense and expect them to make the team, as well as King who is used on special teams.

Cornerback: (6) Stephon Gilmore, Eric Rowe, Jason McCourty, Duke Dawson, Jonathan Jones, Cyrus Jones

The Patriots have a lot of bodies at the cornerback position and could go in many different ways. Jason McCourty was a big name acquisition this offseason but so far his play hasn’t translated to the buzz around him going into camp, and got beat badly on a touchdown last week against the Eagles. I expect him to stick around but am beginning to question the impact and role he could play. I think the real question comes with Jonathan Jones and Cyrus Jones, both who started off on the PUP list . Jonathan Jones played well last year as the teams primary slot corner before being injured, and then the team selected Duke Dawson in the second round of the NFL Draft, who was primarily a slot corner in college and has looked good in training camp so far and has been dealing with a small injury himself. Cyrus Jones was terrible on defense and special teams his rookie year, then missed his second year after tearing his ACL. I think it would be too early to move on from Cyrus after only seeing what he could do for one year really.

Safety: (5) Devin McCourty, Patrick Chung, Duron Harmon, Nate Ebner, Eddie Pleasant

McCourty, Chung, and Harmon are all locks and key members of the Patriots defense, as well as Ebner being a lock as a core member of the special teams. Eddie Pleasant has played decently in the first two preseason games, and I just absolutely hate Jordan Richards and will not give him a spot on my projection. So congrats Eddie Pleasant for not being Jordan Richards.

Specialists: (3) Stephen Gostkowski, Ryan Allen, Joe Cardona

No surprises here as this has been the core the past few years and haven’t seen much out of Corey Bojorquez.

AFC, New England Patriots, NFL

PATRIOTS 7 ROUND MOCK DRAFT 2 .0

April 18, 2018 Bill Bodell Leave a comment

The 2018 NFL Draft is just over a week away and the Patriots still have some holes and needs on the roster that they will look to address in the draft. After a surprising trade that sent wide receiver Brandin Cooks to the Los Angeles Rams, the Patriots now own two picks in the first and second rounds and own five of the first 95 picks in the draft.

Round 1 Pick 23: Rashaan Evans, Linebacker, Alabama

The Patriots linebacking core was terrible in 2017. The Patriots will benefit heavily from getting Dont’a Hightower back from injury in 2018, but is someone the Patriots can not rely on to stay healthy and even with Hightower returning and healthy the Pats could use an upgrade at the position. The Pats select another Alabama linebacker in Evans to pair with Hightower. Evans is extremely versatile and has the ability to play both inside and outside in the pros, as well as get after the quarterback and drop into coverage. Selecting Evans gives a great complimentary piece to Hightower, as well as gives the Patriots insurance if Hightower misses time again in the future. Evans had an official visit with the Patriots last week and is someone who is definitely on the Patriots radar.

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Round 1 Pick 31: Kolton Miller, Offensive Tackle, UCLA

I had the Patriots selecting Miller here in the first version of my mock draft and stick with him again here. Following the departure of left tackle Nate Solder tackle immediately becomes one of the biggest needs for the Patriots, despite the team re-signing LaAdrian Waddle in free agency. Waddle filled in nicely last year at right tackle for Marcus Cannon, but is not a full-time starter. Miller can step in right away and protect the blindside of quarterback Tom Brady. Miller has good size and arm length similar to Solder which will help him defend speed rushers off the edge. 2017 third-round pick Tony Garcia is reported to be getting healthier after missing all of the 2017 season due to having blood clots in his lungs and the Patriots could defer to take a tackle later on in the draft if they believe in Garcia, but I have them taking Miller here who can step in and start right away. Miller visited with the Patriots last week and wouldn’t be surprising to see his name called by the Patriots on Day One of the NFL Draft.

Round 2 Pick 43: Maurice Hurst, Defensive Line, Michigan

Let me start off by saying that I do not think Hurst will be available at this pick, hell I don’t even think Hurst be around at 23 if were being honest but it’s the way the simulator goes and if for some reason Hurst was available here the Patriots should run up the stage with the draft card with his name on it. As a Michigan fan I’ve watched a lot of Hurst over the past few years and he is an absolute monster on the defensive line. His speed and explosiveness allows him to go through an offensive line with ease and disrupt plays in the backfield. Hurst also has the ability to play inside or outside due to his combination of size and speed. Would be small for a true interior defensive lineman listed at 6’2 282 pounds, but has size flexibility to gain weight to his frame to become more of an interior player or stay where he’s at or slim down and play primarily on the outside and move inside on third down and passing situations. Hurst did have a medical condition for an irregular heartbeat at the NFL Combine but was cleared medically prior to his pro day.

Round 2 Pick 63: Mike Gesicki, Tight End, Penn State

While I believe that Rob Gronkowski will return to the Patriots for 2018 his status is currently unknown. Even if Gronkowski returns, Gesicki is an improvement from Jacob Hollister and Dwayne Allen, the latter who still could be released from the Patriots and save the team $5 million in cap space, as well as be a nice compliment to Gronkowski in the passing game. Gesicki has good size listed at 6’5 247 pounds, and had a great combine running a 4.54 40-yard dash. While Gesicki isn’t polished as a blocker he has great hands and route running ability, which could allow the Patriots to draft Gesicki and still keep Allen, who was used primarily as a blocker last season.

Round 3 Pick 95: Kyle Lauletta, Quarterback, Richmond

The big question of who is going to be Tom Brady’s successor has finally been answered in Richmond quarterback Kyle Lauletta. Lauletta could end up going earlier than this due to the need of quarterbacks around the league, and the reported Patriots interest in Lauletta earlier in the draft process and offseason. Lauletta was the MVP of the Senior Bowl and has drawn comparisons to Jimmy Garoppolo, primarily due to the two both being quarterbacks from the FCS and some similarities in their play style. If Belichick sees Lauletta as a similar player to Garoppolo you could see the Patriots, and other teams attempt to move up earlier in the draft to select him. There were reports that the Patriots were the team most interested in Lamar Jackson, and while I think Jackson is a great player do not want the Patriots selecting a quarterback too early in the draft, especially with the team likely having to move up in the first round to select Jackson.

Round 6 Pick 198: Taron Johnson, Cornerback, Weber State

Cornerback looked to be a big need for the Patriots after Malcolm Butler signed with the Tennessee Titans and the Patriots missed out on top guys on the market such as Aqib Talib and Richard Sherman. The Patriots then made a call to their farm system the Cleveland Browns to acquire Jason McCourty, which doesn’t make corner as big an area of need for the Patriots. Johnson player both outside and in the slot during his time at Weber State, but projects as more of an inside corner in the pros due to his size. Johnson has good ball skills having 42 passes broken up during his time at Weber State and could push Cyrus Jones for a roster spot if the former second-round pick doesn’t show signs of improvement.

Round 6 Pick 210: Christian Sam, Linebacker, Arizona State

Patriots go linebacker again in the sixth round taking Christian Sam, who is a slightly undersized linebacker but has the ability to play inside and outside linebacker. Sam is a good coverage linebacker which is something the Patriots lacked last season and can help fill a role on defense and is someone who always seems to be around the ball. Sam is another player who has had an official visit with the Patriots prior to the draft.

Round 7 Pick 216: Chase Edmonds, Running Back, Fordham

The Patriots lost Dion Lewis in free agency but retained Rex Burkhead as well as signed Jeremy Hill in the offseason which doesn’t make running back a huge need. Edmonds was an extremely productive four year starter at the FCS level but dealt with some injuries during his time in college. The Patriots could take a flyer on him late to see how he translates from the FCS.

AFC, New England Patriots, NFL

Patriots look to move past early season struggles

October 3, 2017 Bill Bodell Leave a comment

We are now through the first month of the NFL season, and so far it’s fair to say that the reigning Super Bowl champion New England Patriots have disappointed so far. The Patriots stand at 2-2 and second in the AFC East behind the Buffalo Bills.
The biggest disappointment so far for the Patriots has been the play of the secondary, most noticeably big offseason addition Stephon Gilmore. Gilmore has struggled in coverage and with penalties early this season, including a hands to the face penalty late in the 4th quarter against the Carolina Panthers which helped play a role in the Patriots loss.

The Patriots other big offseason acquisition in wide receiver Brandin Cooks hasn’t played as big of a role as most expected, but has shown signs of promise. Cooks played a huge role in the Patriots win over the Houston Texans where he had five catches and racked up 131 yards with two touchdowns, including the game winner with twenty-three seconds left in regulation.

While the Patriots offense hasn’t looked as smooth as it has in years past, they are still performing at a high level with Tom Brady maybe playing his best football yet at age 40. The Patriots struggles so far is solely on the defense and coaching. Through four games the Patriots are allowing 32.8 points per game, which is last in the NFL, a big difference from the 15 points per game the defense let up last year, which led the entire league.

The Patriots defense will be tested yet again this week when they face off against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Thursday Night. If the Patriots don’t want to move to 2-3 on the season the biggest change they need to make is their defensive scheme and play a tight man defense, rather than the zone they have been playing. Malcolm Butler is one of the most physical and scrappy cornerbacks in the entire league and Stephon Gilmore is one of the bigger corners in the league standing at 6’3. The Patriots need to play to their strengths; which is being physical off the line of scrimmage. Playing a tight man coverage won’t allow quarterbacks to throw underneath and in the middle of the field, and will also allow the Patriots to send extra pressure after the quarterback. The scheme and game plan that defensive coordinator Matt Patricia has been running so far this year hasn’t been working and it’s time to make a change to best fit the strengths of your players, if not Buccaneers’ Jameis Winston and Mike Evans will light up the Patriots secondary this week and opposing offenses will continue to do so throughout the season.

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