ReBuilding The New England Patriots Defense

Many Patriots fans seem to still be under the delusion that their defense is a mere pass rusher away from returning to an elite, Super Bowl-caliber squad. The reality is that the Patriots defense began a full on rebuild in 2009, making the AFC East title they won even more impressive considering it was done with such a young and inconsistent defense.

The core leadership of the early Super Bowl defenses, like Tedy Bruschi, Willie McGinest, and Rodney Harrison was born of playoff disappointment early in their careers, just as this season's playoff loss will be a building block for young leaders like Jerod Mayo and Brandon Meriweather.

So what are the biggest holes to fill? I believe that the number one need for this team right now is a right defensive end to replace Richard Seymour. For all the talk about the Pats lack of pressure on the passer, it was the run defense that was most lacking in the playoff loss. Stopping the run must be first and foremost for any defense and the Patriots lacked a starting quality 5-techinique in 2009.

Jarvis Green is better suited as an inside pass rusher. Mike Wright is a solid player, but far from an impact defender. Defensive Ends in the 3-4 defense must be mountains of men, who can tie up multiple blockers while holding their ground. These players are hard to find, as evidenced by the fact that both Seymour and Ty Warren were 1st round picks.

That is why I'm taking a long hard look at Jared Odrick at the 22nd spot in the draft. Odrick has the size, but we're still unsure if he has the strength necessary as a 5-technique.

With plenty of developmental pass rushers available for one of the second round picks, and such a high premium placed on players with the size to play the line in the 3-4, the Patriots might have to make a move at 22 for someone like Odrick.

As we saw with Vince Wilfork being the first Patriot in a long time to get a rich new contract, Bill Belichick's theory of team building starts on the lines. So they must fill holes there first and foremost with their high picks.

Of course there's always the Raiders 2011 first round pick if the Patriots fail to acquire a 5-technique this year.