In anticipation of the NFL Draft, each position will be evaluated for the team’s need at that position. Each position will be rated for the Patriots’ need, with 1 not a need and 5 being ugent:
Defensive Line
Vince Wilfork, Mike Wright, Ty Warren, Ron Brace, Myron Pryor, Darryl Richard, Adrian Grady, Damione Lewis
Need: 4
Wilfork will anchor the line, playing the nose or end. With the security of a new contract, he will remain with the Patriots for the next five years. Wright likely becomes the starter after Jarvis Green left for Denver. Warren remains solid, though unspectacular.
As much of a surprise Pryor was, Brace was as much of a disappointment. Newly signed Lewis, new to a 3-4 defense, will provide depth if he can adjust after playing 10 years in a 4-3. Richard and Grady have to earn their roster spots in 2010.
It looks like the Pats are turning over the D-line to make the unit younger. Green was allowed to leave, likely promoting Wright. Even with the addition of Lewis, the depth is questionable. Brace needs to perform a 180 to validate his second round selection. Wilfork played so well at end, it’s fair to wonder if it will become his permanent position. That could decide whether New England selects a DE or a NT early in the draft.
Questions? Comments? Send to talktome@randolphc.com
Keywords: Adrian Grady, Damione Lewis, Darryl Richard, Jarvis Green, Mike Wright, Myron Pryor, New England Patriots, Richard Seymour, Ron Brace, Ty Warren, Vince Wilfork
