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 urgent:
Secondary
Shawn Springs, Leigh Bodden, Darius Butler, Jonathan Wilhite, Terrence Wheatley, Brandon Merriweather, Brandon McGowan, Pat Chung, Kyle Arrington, James Sanders
Cornerback Need: 4
Bodden established himself as the top corner on the team. But who will start opposite of Bodden? Based on his rookie season, Butler looks like he has the potential to start on the left side. Wilhite had his chance last year and failed. Springs was decent when he played, but he started just eight games. Wheatley slipped further down the depth chart. Arrington hasn’t established himself with the team.
Even if the starters are solid, depth is a real concern. If Buter does become a starter, Springs probably lacks the quickness to play the slot. New England must try again to find a corner or two to develop with the current young corners showing little promise going into their third season.
Safety Need: 1
Merriweather was a Pro Bowl alternate in 2009, and is expected to take more of a leadership role on the defense. Who he starts with isn’t quite determined. Will Sanders, who regained the starting job for the last four games, or will McGowan become consistent for a full season? If neither stands out, Chung, the Pats’ top pick last year, has to play his way into the rotation. To do that, he will have to prove he’s more than a in the box safety.
There isn’t even a need to add competition at the position, as Sanders, McGowan, and Chung are all after the same opportunity. The odd man out will provide quality depth at both safety positions, which are interchangeable in New England’s defense.
Questions? Comments? Send to talktome@randolphc.com
