Notes: I'll be making reckless predictions on who's making the team, and what their season stats will look like. We'll definitely check back during and after the season to see how I stack up.
OFFENSE
Quarterback
This is probably the easiest position to figure out. Tom Brady, if he remains healthy (knock on wood), is in line for another season as one of the elite signalcallers in the game. He picks apart defenses, throws the screen, short, medium, long, and bomb passes with ease, plays through pain, and handles the rush well, despite his 6'4", 225 lb frame. Last year he posted one of the best statistical seasons in the history of the game.That said, if he gets hurt the Pats are in some seriously hot water. The 3 back-ups have thrown a total of 40 NFL passes between them. Matt Cassel is in his 4th year out of USC, and has yet to see any real playing time. He moves around pretty well, but he makes poor choices and doesn't throw a consistent ball. Matt Gutierrez signed as a rookie free-agent last year and filled the role of 3rd-stringer after Vinny Testaverde was released. There's really not much to say about him; he has NFL size (6'4", 230 lbs) and a strong arm, but he's never seen much playing time, even in preseason.
The intriguing player here is Kevin O'Connell, the third-round draft choice out of San Diego State University. He has big time measurables at 6'5", 230 lbs, a 31 inch vertical jump, and a 4.61 40 yard dash (very respectable for a QB), and he's known as a smart player and reliable leader (he was elected a team captain 4 times). He turned down a scholarship at Colorado to play at SDSU, and basically did it all for the Aztecs. He finished his 4 years and 40 games with 9,001 yards of total offense, 7,689 of it passing, with 46 passing and 19 rushing touchdowns. He's most definitely a project, but the Patriots made him the 5th QB chosen for a reason. I'm willing to wager they're going to groom him with the possibility of being Brady's eventual replacement.
Expectations
It's hard to expect Brady to duplicate last years record-breaking air show, but something like 4,140 yards, 37 TD's, and 18 picks at around a 62.8% rate seems like the most likely outcome to me.
Sleepers
Not a lot to work with here but, long-term, I like Kevin O'Connell's chances of being a productive player.
Under-The-Radar Contributor
Um, maybe in Week 17 we'll see O'Connell throw a couple of passes while Brady rests up for the playoffs.
Worrisome Thoughts
Please, please, please, please, PLEASE stay healthy Tommy.
Depth Chart
*Tom Brady
Matt Cassel
Kevin O'Connell
The Pats are highly unlikely to carry four QB's. Gutierrez gets the cut, being the middle child: not enough experience to help out, and not enough promise to justify keeping.
Key: Italics = rookie, *asterisk = starter,
Bottom Line
Brady is one of the best in the game, and with his track record of staying healthy, we shouldn't have to face the ugly chance of playing a greenhorn back up.
Grade
A+
Running Back
Again, not a tough position to hash out, mostly since there aren't many players in the mix. Under Belichick, the Patriots have always spread the carries out a little bit. He loves to play the match-up game, and isn't afraid to give a back-up the ball if he thinks it'll prove more productive. With the way running backs get beat up, many NFL teams are going to the "RB by committee" approach, and I think the Patriots are moving in that direction as well.
Halfback
In the Patriots system versatility is the key. Backs have to be able to run the ball both with and without lead blockers out of any number of different sets, catch the ball consistently, and pass block effectively.
Laurence Maroney is the unquestioned starter. He's a phenomenal athlete with game-breaking speed, and he runs with a bruising style similar to his college backfield-mate at Minnesota, Marion Barber III. The only real detractions from his game are his durability (only 360 carries in 2 seasons), his undistinguished blocking, and his occasional tendency to dance behind the line, waiting for the perfect hole to open. A lot of critics will call his receiving ability into question, but I'm of the mind that he simply hasn't had the chance to exhibit them (26 receptions in 2 years, for an impressive 11.9 YPC average)
Sammy Morris is the quintessential back-up, the thunder to Maroney's lightning. Morris runs with a upright, aggressive, slashing style that lends itself to between the tackles and short yardage situations. He's an effective blocker and a capable receiver. Kevin Faulk is the consummate 3rd-down back: quick, agile, an excellent receiver, and solid pass blocker. He runs well out of the shotgun, and Belichick will often use him to give a different look to the defense. BenJarvus Green-Ellis is an undrafted rookie who's more of a bruiser, breaking tackles and grinding out yardage, without a lot of speed.
UPDATE: As of 8/26/08, the Patriots have signed RB LaMont Jordan, late of the Raiders. Jordan is a powerful, straight-ahead runner, and a capable receiver.
Fullback
Heath Evans was a mid-season pick-up in 2005, and he's rapidly become a crucial part of the Patriots offense. He's a punishing run blocker, an effective pass blocker, a reliable pass catcher, and he can even tote the rock every once in a while. Kyle Eckel is a decent backup. Although he's probably a better pure rusher than Evans, he's not as good a receiver, and he pales in comparison in the blocking game. They both play well on special teams, Evans moreso.
Expectations
Even though they're one of the best passing teams in the league, working largely out of spread sets, New England has historically been a play-action team and I think it fits well with what Belichick likes to do. I think you could see Big Bill mix it up more this season and run the ball much more, hopefully taking some of the heat off of Brady and controlling the clock more effectively. They've been incorporating zone-blocking into their offense, which is a better fit for their smaller, faster, more athletic offensive-line. All of that could spell out a big year for Maroney. I'd say 1,245 yards and 8 touchdowns. Morris probably chips in with 350 or so with 2 or 3 touchdowns, and Faulk will probably grab a few carries here and there, and post 320 yards receiving or so, with 2 or 3 scores of his own.
Sleepers
In a position bereft of sheer numbers I'll go with BenJarvus Green-Ellis, if only because I love the four-names-for-the-price-of-two bargain.
Under-The-Radar Contributor
As always, Kevin Faulk will do all the little things that don't always show up in the box-score.
Worrisome Thoughts
I'm not a huge Kyle Eckel fan; he's got some character concerns and he's never been consistently effective in any aspect of the game. I think he'll make the roster, but I'd rather see Green-Ellis get a shot.
Depth Chart
Updated 8/26/08
HB
*Laurence Maroney
Sammy Morris
Kevin Faulk
LaMont Jordan
BenJarvus Green-Ellis
FB
*Heath Evans
Kyle Eckel
The signing of LaMont Jordan appears to herald the end of Kyle Eckel's time in a Patriot uniform. Green-Ellis still provides injury insurance and a different look, making him a prime candidate for the Practice Squad.
Key: Italics = rookie, *asterisk = starter,strikethrough = cut
Bottom Line
This is a varied and experienced unit that'll answer the call, no matter what it is.
Grade
B+
I'm not saying there won't be a fall-off, in fact I'm counting on it. After an outlier like last year, we're bound to regress, at least somewhat, to the mean. Still, that could still leave the New England offense as the best in the game. At the very worst, and I mean catastrophic injury plague, we're still probably top 5 in scoring.
Sleepers
I think it could be Chad Jackson's time to shine. The 3rd year is a critical one for receivers; they've had time to adjust to the speed of the league and the more complex pro-schemes. Jabar Gaffney could surprise too. If Jackson can't seize the starting spot from him, it would be Gaffney's first year as a full-time starting option in the Patriots system.
Under-The-Radar Contributor
Kevin Faulk does so much for this unit. He runs, catches, blocks, and does it all without complaining. You know that when you call his number, you can count on his reliability. He moves the chains in key 3rd-down situations, and acts as an excellent pinch-hitter off the bench when you need a change of pace. His final stats won't make him look like a star, but he's a key component to what the team does.
Worrisome Thoughts
Can the line recover from its pants-down ass whupping at the hands of the Giants? Will Maroney continue his growth into a formidable weapon? Will the Patriots run up the score as often as they can, or only when they're pissed off?
Bottom Line
As long as Brady remains healthy, this unit is one of, if not THE, best in the league. Without him, we might be lucky to aim for average.
Grade
A
Halfback
In the Patriots system versatility is the key. Backs have to be able to run the ball both with and without lead blockers out of any number of different sets, catch the ball consistently, and pass block effectively.
Laurence Maroney is the unquestioned starter. He's a phenomenal athlete with game-breaking speed, and he runs with a bruising style similar to his college backfield-mate at Minnesota, Marion Barber III. The only real detractions from his game are his durability (only 360 carries in 2 seasons), his undistinguished blocking, and his occasional tendency to dance behind the line, waiting for the perfect hole to open. A lot of critics will call his receiving ability into question, but I'm of the mind that he simply hasn't had the chance to exhibit them (26 receptions in 2 years, for an impressive 11.9 YPC average)
Sammy Morris is the quintessential back-up, the thunder to Maroney's lightning. Morris runs with a upright, aggressive, slashing style that lends itself to between the tackles and short yardage situations. He's an effective blocker and a capable receiver. Kevin Faulk is the consummate 3rd-down back: quick, agile, an excellent receiver, and solid pass blocker. He runs well out of the shotgun, and Belichick will often use him to give a different look to the defense. BenJarvus Green-Ellis is an undrafted rookie who's more of a bruiser, breaking tackles and grinding out yardage, without a lot of speed.
UPDATE: As of 8/26/08, the Patriots have signed RB LaMont Jordan, late of the Raiders. Jordan is a powerful, straight-ahead runner, and a capable receiver.
Fullback
Heath Evans was a mid-season pick-up in 2005, and he's rapidly become a crucial part of the Patriots offense. He's a punishing run blocker, an effective pass blocker, a reliable pass catcher, and he can even tote the rock every once in a while. Kyle Eckel is a decent backup. Although he's probably a better pure rusher than Evans, he's not as good a receiver, and he pales in comparison in the blocking game. They both play well on special teams, Evans moreso.
Expectations
Even though they're one of the best passing teams in the league, working largely out of spread sets, New England has historically been a play-action team and I think it fits well with what Belichick likes to do. I think you could see Big Bill mix it up more this season and run the ball much more, hopefully taking some of the heat off of Brady and controlling the clock more effectively. They've been incorporating zone-blocking into their offense, which is a better fit for their smaller, faster, more athletic offensive-line. All of that could spell out a big year for Maroney. I'd say 1,245 yards and 8 touchdowns. Morris probably chips in with 350 or so with 2 or 3 touchdowns, and Faulk will probably grab a few carries here and there, and post 320 yards receiving or so, with 2 or 3 scores of his own.
Sleepers
In a position bereft of sheer numbers I'll go with BenJarvus Green-Ellis, if only because I love the four-names-for-the-price-of-two bargain.
Under-The-Radar Contributor
As always, Kevin Faulk will do all the little things that don't always show up in the box-score.
Worrisome Thoughts
I'm not a huge Kyle Eckel fan; he's got some character concerns and he's never been consistently effective in any aspect of the game. I think he'll make the roster, but I'd rather see Green-Ellis get a shot.
Depth Chart
Updated 8/26/08
HB
*Laurence Maroney
Sammy Morris
Kevin Faulk
LaMont Jordan
FB
*Heath Evans
The signing of LaMont Jordan appears to herald the end of Kyle Eckel's time in a Patriot uniform. Green-Ellis still provides injury insurance and a different look, making him a prime candidate for the Practice Squad.
Key: Italics = rookie, *asterisk = starter,
Bottom Line
This is a varied and experienced unit that'll answer the call, no matter what it is.
Grade
B+
Wide Receiver
This is certainly a position of strength for the Patriots. Okay, so that's an understatement. Randy Moss is the one of, if not THE, best in the game; combining size, speed, route-running, and incredible hands to give Tom Brady the All-Pro receiver he always deserved. He was knocked for taking plays off in Oakland, but I'd counter by saying that, in that situation, you would too, raise you the fact that he's been a consummate teammate and professional here in New England. Hell, he's even made strides when it comes to blocking. The best part is, he was had for a 4th round draft pick.
Wes Welker may have cost the Patriots more than Randy Moss (a 2nd and a 7th round pick), but he proved to be completely worth it. Playing mostly out of the slot he grew into Brady's possession receiver, tallying 112 receptions to tie with T.J. Houshmandzadeh for the league lead. Late in the season, things got kind of ridiculous; the Pats would just put the ball in his hands and dare defenses to stop him. He has good top-end speed, elite agility, and a stable of moves that would put even the most skilled of Madden players to shame. He's best put to use as an inside receiver where he can avoid getting jammed at the line and go to work in traffic.
After those two, though, the picture starts to get a little bit muddy. There's no clear-cut choice for the other starting outside spot. Jabar Gaffney would appear to have the inside track, having started 7 games last year, and while he offers a steady presence and good route-running, he doesn't have a lot of upside. Third year pro Chad Jackson is a dark-horse option for the job. He's missed most of his first two years with injuries, and rumors of trouble learning the playbook, but there's no denying he has the pure physical talents to be a productive player. He was almost universally rated one of the top 3 receivers in the 2006 draft. At 6'1", 213 lbs he still runs a 4.32 40-yard dash and posts a 38.5 inch vertical jump. If he can stay on the field, he could have a break-out year playing across from Moss.
While he almost certainly won't start, Kelley Washington could see more time, especially as a goal-line option (he stands 6'3"). Where he really shines is on special teams, where he racked up 11 tackles and 5 assists, along with a blocked kick.
Rookie Matthew Slater is an interesting case. He was a 5th round pick but he's a phenomenal athlete, just one without a real position. At UCLA he played wide receiver, cornerback, safety, gunner, and kick returner. New England's coaching staff values versatility very highly, so he probably makes the team on that merit alone. He's listed as a receiver on the roster, but he'll likely contribute the most on special teams, at least for now.
Robert Ortiz, Sam Aiken, C.J. Jones, and Chris Dunlap round out the corps as the warm-body-just-happy-to-be-here-types. Aiken is a decent special teams player, and the rest have pulses, supposedly. That's about it for them.
Expectations
This unit has the potential to be the best in the league, depending on how the depth situation shakes out. I think there's nowhere for Moss to go but down, through no fault of his own. He's bound to regress a bit from last years record-setting performance, and Brady prefers to spread the ball out, but that said, his favorite receiver is the open receiver. I'd say Moss checks in with 1,380 yards and 16 TD's, while Welker grabs 107 catches or so, for 1,140 yards and 6 scores. After that, I'd put Gaffney down for 620 or so with 4 scores, and Jackson in the mix with 850 yards and 3 touchdowns. Washington and Slater will likely shine on special teams, and get into the game only in 5-wide sets or during garbage time.
Sleepers
I think Chad Jackson is going to take the Quantum Leap this year and go from afterthought to productive player. I mean, he has the ability and he'll be playing across from Randy Moss, which alone should make his life infinitely easier.
Under-The-Radar Contributor
It's hard to call Wes "The Great White Hope" Welker underrated, but he really is the mortar of the Patriots offense. Whenever they face a 3rd-and-7 or a 4th-and-3 you can count on Brady looking his way. He so rarely drops a pass that announcers usually speak in absolutes, and he's a smart player who gets the most out of his already ample abilities.
Worrisome Thoughts
There are possible depth concerns past Moss and Welker. If Jackson doesn't step up, Gaffney regresses, or if there are ANY injuries, the Pats could face a slightly sticky situation.
Depth Chart
*Randy Moss
*Chad Jackson
Wes Welker
Jabar Gaffney
Kelley Washington
Matthew Slater
Sam Aiken
Robert Ortiz
C.J. Jones
Chris Dunlap
Key: Italics = rookie, *asterisk = starter,strikethrough = cut
Bottom Line
A veteran group that looks poised to put up elite numbers. If a few variables turn their way, the Pats could be looking at one of the best units in the league for years to come.
Grade
A
Wes Welker may have cost the Patriots more than Randy Moss (a 2nd and a 7th round pick), but he proved to be completely worth it. Playing mostly out of the slot he grew into Brady's possession receiver, tallying 112 receptions to tie with T.J. Houshmandzadeh for the league lead. Late in the season, things got kind of ridiculous; the Pats would just put the ball in his hands and dare defenses to stop him. He has good top-end speed, elite agility, and a stable of moves that would put even the most skilled of Madden players to shame. He's best put to use as an inside receiver where he can avoid getting jammed at the line and go to work in traffic.
After those two, though, the picture starts to get a little bit muddy. There's no clear-cut choice for the other starting outside spot. Jabar Gaffney would appear to have the inside track, having started 7 games last year, and while he offers a steady presence and good route-running, he doesn't have a lot of upside. Third year pro Chad Jackson is a dark-horse option for the job. He's missed most of his first two years with injuries, and rumors of trouble learning the playbook, but there's no denying he has the pure physical talents to be a productive player. He was almost universally rated one of the top 3 receivers in the 2006 draft. At 6'1", 213 lbs he still runs a 4.32 40-yard dash and posts a 38.5 inch vertical jump. If he can stay on the field, he could have a break-out year playing across from Moss.
While he almost certainly won't start, Kelley Washington could see more time, especially as a goal-line option (he stands 6'3"). Where he really shines is on special teams, where he racked up 11 tackles and 5 assists, along with a blocked kick.
Rookie Matthew Slater is an interesting case. He was a 5th round pick but he's a phenomenal athlete, just one without a real position. At UCLA he played wide receiver, cornerback, safety, gunner, and kick returner. New England's coaching staff values versatility very highly, so he probably makes the team on that merit alone. He's listed as a receiver on the roster, but he'll likely contribute the most on special teams, at least for now.
Robert Ortiz, Sam Aiken, C.J. Jones, and Chris Dunlap round out the corps as the warm-body-just-happy-to-be-here-types. Aiken is a decent special teams player, and the rest have pulses, supposedly. That's about it for them.
Expectations
This unit has the potential to be the best in the league, depending on how the depth situation shakes out. I think there's nowhere for Moss to go but down, through no fault of his own. He's bound to regress a bit from last years record-setting performance, and Brady prefers to spread the ball out, but that said, his favorite receiver is the open receiver. I'd say Moss checks in with 1,380 yards and 16 TD's, while Welker grabs 107 catches or so, for 1,140 yards and 6 scores. After that, I'd put Gaffney down for 620 or so with 4 scores, and Jackson in the mix with 850 yards and 3 touchdowns. Washington and Slater will likely shine on special teams, and get into the game only in 5-wide sets or during garbage time.
Sleepers
I think Chad Jackson is going to take the Quantum Leap this year and go from afterthought to productive player. I mean, he has the ability and he'll be playing across from Randy Moss, which alone should make his life infinitely easier.
Under-The-Radar Contributor
It's hard to call Wes "The Great White Hope" Welker underrated, but he really is the mortar of the Patriots offense. Whenever they face a 3rd-and-7 or a 4th-and-3 you can count on Brady looking his way. He so rarely drops a pass that announcers usually speak in absolutes, and he's a smart player who gets the most out of his already ample abilities.
Worrisome Thoughts
There are possible depth concerns past Moss and Welker. If Jackson doesn't step up, Gaffney regresses, or if there are ANY injuries, the Pats could face a slightly sticky situation.
Depth Chart
*Randy Moss
*Chad Jackson
Wes Welker
Jabar Gaffney
Kelley Washington
Matthew Slater
Robert Ortiz
C.J. Jones
Chris Dunlap
Key: Italics = rookie, *asterisk = starter,
Bottom Line
A veteran group that looks poised to put up elite numbers. If a few variables turn their way, the Pats could be looking at one of the best units in the league for years to come.
Grade
A
Tight End
ExpectationsTwo seasons ago in 2006-2007, it was the year of the tight end. Ben Watson was the second-leading receiver on the team and the team spent down after down in 2-and-3 tight sets. There was a time when it seemed like Belichick and Pioli would pick up one or two in every draft. Last year, with the rise of the spread offense, coupled with the departure of long-time contributor Daniel Graham and injury to rising star David Thomas, it was a down year for tight ends in New England.
There was a time when critics and fans alike saw Ben Watson as a rising star, the heir apparent to Ben Coates and one of the new generations of game-changing tight ends. While there's no denying his athletic talents, most can agree that the ceiling may have been set a bit high for him. He can stretch the field with his speed, and he has the strength to fight for position in man-to-man coverage, but it appears as if he has trouble adjusting to zone coverage, and his hands are suspect. He can be frustratingly inconsistent, dropping seemingly easy catches, then turning around and making a highlight reel grab, and no matter what he does, he's a liability in the blocking game. At his best he's an elite player, too fast for most linebackers and too strong for most defensive backs. At his worst, he's a clumsy route-bungler. Hopefully he can find some consistency and show the steady growth he did in his first 3 seasons.
David Thomas is the heir apparent to the back-up spot. Although not as athletically gifted, the 3rd year player has steadier hands, and while he's not an incredible blocker, he's better than Ben "The Matador" Watson. With some more playing time, he could turn the corner this year and end up being a pretty good player.
Free-agent signing Marcus Pollard has had a nice career playing with Indy, Detroit, and Seattle, but at 36 he's nearing the end of the line. I know Bill Belichick loves veterans, but according to first hand reports, Pollard has appear positively calcified in team activities this year. I think Pollard will either be cut, hang it up, or both. The other two guys in the mix, Stephen Spach and rookie Jonathan Stupar aren't particularly accomplished. Spach is a good blocker, while Stupar has shown some promise down field and isn't a slouch when it comes to blocking, either. If either of them want to make the roster, they'll have to show something on special teams as well.
That said, this is another position at which the Patriots like to have players of differing skill sets to fit various situations. Belichick loves to utilize tight ends, whether it be as blockers, decoys, or targets. Maybe another year I could see him keeping 4 tights, but not with the spread style offense he's moved towards.
There was a time when critics and fans alike saw Ben Watson as a rising star, the heir apparent to Ben Coates and one of the new generations of game-changing tight ends. While there's no denying his athletic talents, most can agree that the ceiling may have been set a bit high for him. He can stretch the field with his speed, and he has the strength to fight for position in man-to-man coverage, but it appears as if he has trouble adjusting to zone coverage, and his hands are suspect. He can be frustratingly inconsistent, dropping seemingly easy catches, then turning around and making a highlight reel grab, and no matter what he does, he's a liability in the blocking game. At his best he's an elite player, too fast for most linebackers and too strong for most defensive backs. At his worst, he's a clumsy route-bungler. Hopefully he can find some consistency and show the steady growth he did in his first 3 seasons.
David Thomas is the heir apparent to the back-up spot. Although not as athletically gifted, the 3rd year player has steadier hands, and while he's not an incredible blocker, he's better than Ben "The Matador" Watson. With some more playing time, he could turn the corner this year and end up being a pretty good player.
Free-agent signing Marcus Pollard has had a nice career playing with Indy, Detroit, and Seattle, but at 36 he's nearing the end of the line. I know Bill Belichick loves veterans, but according to first hand reports, Pollard has appear positively calcified in team activities this year. I think Pollard will either be cut, hang it up, or both. The other two guys in the mix, Stephen Spach and rookie Jonathan Stupar aren't particularly accomplished. Spach is a good blocker, while Stupar has shown some promise down field and isn't a slouch when it comes to blocking, either. If either of them want to make the roster, they'll have to show something on special teams as well.
That said, this is another position at which the Patriots like to have players of differing skill sets to fit various situations. Belichick loves to utilize tight ends, whether it be as blockers, decoys, or targets. Maybe another year I could see him keeping 4 tights, but not with the spread style offense he's moved towards.
Expectations
This unit will probably produce as much as it's allowed, but there aren't likely to be as many opportunities as in past seasons.
Sleepers
With his talent, Watson's always a bet for a break-out year, but I'll go with David Thomas here. If he progresses his blocking skills to go with his offensive ability, he could start to steal some real time from Big Ben.
Under-The-Radar Contributor
Aren't they all? If Spach makes the roster, his blocking could be key in short-yardage/goal-line situations. If it's Stupar, with time, he could grow into a solid all-around player.
Worrisome Thoughts
Again, not a lot of depth here, but it's not critical to have a top-end unit to be productive.
Depth Chart
*Ben Watson
David Thomas
Stephen Spach
Jonathan Stupar
Marcus Pollard
I don't think Pollard has enough left in the tank to contribute, and with Spach vs. Stupar there's no winning.
Key: Italics = rookie, *asterisk = starter,strikethrough = cut
Bottom Line
A good offensive unit, but a bit short in the blocking department. Watson is a bit injury prone, and he's not getting any younger. It'd be conducive to success to start figuring out how to get production out of the unit without him.
Grade
B-
Offensive LineThis unit will probably produce as much as it's allowed, but there aren't likely to be as many opportunities as in past seasons.
Sleepers
With his talent, Watson's always a bet for a break-out year, but I'll go with David Thomas here. If he progresses his blocking skills to go with his offensive ability, he could start to steal some real time from Big Ben.
Under-The-Radar Contributor
Aren't they all? If Spach makes the roster, his blocking could be key in short-yardage/goal-line situations. If it's Stupar, with time, he could grow into a solid all-around player.
Worrisome Thoughts
Again, not a lot of depth here, but it's not critical to have a top-end unit to be productive.
Depth Chart
*Ben Watson
David Thomas
Marcus Pollard
I don't think Pollard has enough left in the tank to contribute, and with Spach vs. Stupar there's no winning.
Key: Italics = rookie, *asterisk = starter,
Bottom Line
A good offensive unit, but a bit short in the blocking department. Watson is a bit injury prone, and he's not getting any younger. It'd be conducive to success to start figuring out how to get production out of the unit without him.
Grade
B-
This group was last seen lying on their backs on the turf during the Super Bowl, contemplating their future employment plans. While they may have been outplayed in the most important game of their lives, they performed admirably up until that point. I suspect they'll bounce back, as a unit and continue their rise as one of the best lines in the league.
That said, there will be some changes this year. As previously mentioned, New England has been working a lot of zone blocking into their offense. Zone blocking works about like it sounds. Each lineman is in charge of the area ahead of him and between himself and the next lineman towards to play side. For example, on a zone run to the right, the center would be responsible for blocking players ahead of him and in between the himself and the right guard.
The object of this scheme is to avoid getting fooled by twists and stunts by the D-linemen and more effectively handle the blitz. It calls for faster, more athletic line who can get out and block linebackers, as well as move over and assist on a double-team. There are no specific holes called on running plays, rather the running back follows behind the line and runs to daylight, taking whatever hole opens. Due to the mobile nature of the front, cutback lanes are a crucial to zone blocking. As the play drifts to the left or right, defensive players are often left away from the play, consumed in the scrum of players, or break their assignments. When this happens, it can create lots of room to run on the backside of a play. While the optimum zone scheme rusher is a one-cut-and-go style runner, it helps if they have the vision and agility to capitalize on the defenses mistakes. While I doubt the Patriots will go to an exclusively zone blocking offense, a la Rox's precious Denver Broncos, it could go a long way towards alleviating some of the pressure on Tom Brady, by forcing defenses to respect the run.
Tackle
Matt Light is the All-Pro left-tackle charged with protecting Tom Brady's blind side. He's known as a finesse player, since he doesn't possess tremendous raw strength, rather relying on his mobility and intelligence. He handles speed rushers like the Colts Dwight Freeney and Aaron Schobel of the Bills, whereas power rushers like the Vikings Jared Allen and the Redskins Jason Taylor can give him trouble. He's never dominant, but always solid, and largely consistent. As a run blocker, he truly shines. He's fast enough to get to the outside on screen passes and outside runs, and plays well in space.
On the right side, the starting picture isn't so clear. Nick Kaczur has started 35 games in his first three years, including 15 last year, but after being caught with 202 oxycontin he could be on the outs with the Patriots, who hold their players to a high standard of character. He a solid pass blocker, and when it comes to run blocking he's good, although he's more of an inline player, and if he makes the team he'll play well.
Ryan O'Callaghan is another option. The 3rd year pro out of Cal started 6 games his rookie year, with Kaczur moving over to the left side to fill in for the injured light. He's not the protypical Patriots lineman in the least. He stands 6'7" and 330 lbs, whereas Kaczur and Light are both 6'4" and around 310. He's not as mobile as New England would prefer in pass blocking, but he's a bruising run blocker capable of delivering a Mack-truck style blow. He's such a good run blocker, the team often brought him in as a tight-end in short yardage situations last year.
Further muddying the picture are veteran free agents Oliver Ross and Anthony Clement. Clement started every game at tackle for the Jets over the past two years, and is built in the larger mold (6'8" 320 lbs), whereas Oliver Ross is more of a tackle/guard tweener, back-up type although at 6'4", 327 lbs he can certainly has the size the Patriots look for. Clement is, in my mind, a lock to make the roster, and a candidate to start if Kaczur gets the axe.
Wesley Britt is a 3rd year pro out of Alabama who's played in 14 games over the past two seasons for the Pats. He's a decent back-up, and he knows the system. Rounding out the tackles is Lavdrim Bauta, an undrafted rookie out of Villanova. There's almsot no way he makes the team, but he's 6'5" 285, so he has room to grow and could be a developmental prospect if he makes it onto the Practice Squad.
Guard
The starters at guard are a lot clearer. The Patriots surprised most everyone by taking Logan Mankins with the last pick of the first round in 2005, but he's payed immense dividends. At 6'4" 310, he posses incredible strength for a guard and he plays with an absolutely frightening mean streak. He made his first Pro-Bowl last year, was selected as a second team All-Pro, and most informed observers will tell you he's just getting started. He's a road-grader in the run game, and a bulldog in pass protection, and he grows the best mountain man beard on the team.
While his teammate on the left side may get more press, his counterpart on the right has an equally interesting story. He never played football at Cal State-Bakersfield, instead focusing on wrestling, where he compiled a sparkling 151-10 record, capturing NCAA titles in his Junior and Senior years (he also finished 4th as a Freshman and 2nd as a Sophomore). After he narrowly missed making the 2000 Olympics team, he retired from amateur wrestling. He was signed by the Patriots before the 2001 season, and was cut in training camp, later being resigned during the season. He missed most of 2002 and all of 2003 with a shoulder injury he suffered against Green Bay while fighting for a fumble most players thought was a dropped pass, but in 2004 he grabbed the starting job and he hasn't looked back.
At 6'5", 315 lbs he's very mobile, even for a guard. He acquits himself well in pass coverage, but he's at his best in the run game. He is prone to holding penalties, but that's understandable given his history in wrestling. He missed 8 regular season games due to injury last year, but even more importantly, he went down in the second quarter of the Super Bowl with a knee injury. The Patriots are notoriously secretive concerning their injured players, but it did require surgery, and the stockpiling of veteran players could indicate a more serious situation than we can see on the surface.
The back-up situation at guard is quite good. Russ Hochstein is the primary back-up at both guard spots, as well as at center. He's fully capable of starting, but the Patriots use him as a sort of super-sub, rotating through those three spots whenever there are injuries or someone needs a spell. Billy Yates has been in the system for a few years, and run-blocks well enough but struggles in pass protection. I mentioned Oliver Ross under tackles since he'd played there in the past, but he's listed at both guard spots on the official depth-chart. Third year pro Dan Connelly was on the practice squad last year, and he grew up in Missouri, so he's probably unfailingly polite.
Center
Dan Koppen is as steady as they come at center. He's slightly undersized for a lineman, at 6'2" 296 lbs, but centers have been trending smaller in recent years anyway. He enters this season coming off of his first Pro Bowl and the honor of being named 2nd team All Pro. Koppen is a terrific run blocker, with the ability to go deep and take out linebackers, as well as the strength to deal with the ever growing nose tackles lined up over him. In pass protection, he not only offers terrific blocking skill, but calls all of the line audibles as well.
Ross Hochstein, as mentioned above, is a starting quality guy who acts as the primary pinch-hitter at the three inside spots. Gene Mruczkowski is a capable back-up, and he can slide down to guard in a pinch. Ryan Wendell and Jimmy Martin are both fringe guys. Martin has spent time with the Chargers and the Vikings, never cracking the roster, and Wendell is a rookie free agent. Both of them stand a chance to make the practice squad, but I'd give the edge to Wendell who's more a developmental guy (6'2", 285 lbs), as opposed to Martin who, at 25 probably is what he is.
Expectations
This unit is fairly young, very experienced, and they've been working with each other for a long time. There's a fair chance they could be the best unit in the league, but if they can even approach what they did last year, they'll be just fine.
Sleepers
In the case of an injury to Light or Kaczur, Ryan O'Callaghan could easily step in and give the Patriots a punishing run-blocker on the left or right side.
Under-The-Radar Contributor
Russ Hochstein will probably grab a start or two in the event of one of the guard or center starters going down, and there won't be much of a drop off at all in terms of level of play or rhythm.
Worrisome Thoughts
Although there is some real depth here, if Neal isn't good to go and if Kaczur goes the way of the dodo, it could start them off on the wrong foot. The injury bug can strike anywhere, and with Brady under center, it's vital to have good protection.
Depth Chart
*Matt Light
*Logan Mankins
*Dan Koppen
*Stephen Neal
*Nick Kaczur
Russ Hochstein
Ryan O'Callaghan
Anthony Clement
Billy Yates
Wesley Britt
Gene Mruczkowski
Oliver Ross
Dan Connolly
Jimmy Martin
Ryan Wendell
Lavdrim Bauta
I'm predicting here that Neal will prove to be healthy, and that Kaczur sticks on the roster (he ended up participating in an FBI sting, and will have his misdemeanor case thrown out if he stays out of trouble for 6 months). After Mruczowski's retirement, the only real suspense here is at the end of the staff. I'm betting that Clement still has what it takes after starting for the past two years with the Jets, and that the Patriots will side with Yates and Britt since they've spent considerable time in the system. There's a good chance that some combination of Connolly, Wendell, or Bauta make the Practice Squad, since line coach Dante Scarnecchia loves to develop his own guys. Oliver Ross stands to be this years recipient of the Bam Childress Award, named after the marginal receiver/special teamer and given to the player who seems to be cut and resigned innumerable times during the season.
Key: Italics = rookie, *asterisk = starter,strikethrough = cut
Bottom Line
Again, this unit has the potential to be phenomenal, and at the worst, they'll be passable.
Grade
That said, there will be some changes this year. As previously mentioned, New England has been working a lot of zone blocking into their offense. Zone blocking works about like it sounds. Each lineman is in charge of the area ahead of him and between himself and the next lineman towards to play side. For example, on a zone run to the right, the center would be responsible for blocking players ahead of him and in between the himself and the right guard.
The object of this scheme is to avoid getting fooled by twists and stunts by the D-linemen and more effectively handle the blitz. It calls for faster, more athletic line who can get out and block linebackers, as well as move over and assist on a double-team. There are no specific holes called on running plays, rather the running back follows behind the line and runs to daylight, taking whatever hole opens. Due to the mobile nature of the front, cutback lanes are a crucial to zone blocking. As the play drifts to the left or right, defensive players are often left away from the play, consumed in the scrum of players, or break their assignments. When this happens, it can create lots of room to run on the backside of a play. While the optimum zone scheme rusher is a one-cut-and-go style runner, it helps if they have the vision and agility to capitalize on the defenses mistakes. While I doubt the Patriots will go to an exclusively zone blocking offense, a la Rox's precious Denver Broncos, it could go a long way towards alleviating some of the pressure on Tom Brady, by forcing defenses to respect the run.
Tackle
Matt Light is the All-Pro left-tackle charged with protecting Tom Brady's blind side. He's known as a finesse player, since he doesn't possess tremendous raw strength, rather relying on his mobility and intelligence. He handles speed rushers like the Colts Dwight Freeney and Aaron Schobel of the Bills, whereas power rushers like the Vikings Jared Allen and the Redskins Jason Taylor can give him trouble. He's never dominant, but always solid, and largely consistent. As a run blocker, he truly shines. He's fast enough to get to the outside on screen passes and outside runs, and plays well in space.
On the right side, the starting picture isn't so clear. Nick Kaczur has started 35 games in his first three years, including 15 last year, but after being caught with 202 oxycontin he could be on the outs with the Patriots, who hold their players to a high standard of character. He a solid pass blocker, and when it comes to run blocking he's good, although he's more of an inline player, and if he makes the team he'll play well.
Ryan O'Callaghan is another option. The 3rd year pro out of Cal started 6 games his rookie year, with Kaczur moving over to the left side to fill in for the injured light. He's not the protypical Patriots lineman in the least. He stands 6'7" and 330 lbs, whereas Kaczur and Light are both 6'4" and around 310. He's not as mobile as New England would prefer in pass blocking, but he's a bruising run blocker capable of delivering a Mack-truck style blow. He's such a good run blocker, the team often brought him in as a tight-end in short yardage situations last year.
Further muddying the picture are veteran free agents Oliver Ross and Anthony Clement. Clement started every game at tackle for the Jets over the past two years, and is built in the larger mold (6'8" 320 lbs), whereas Oliver Ross is more of a tackle/guard tweener, back-up type although at 6'4", 327 lbs he can certainly has the size the Patriots look for. Clement is, in my mind, a lock to make the roster, and a candidate to start if Kaczur gets the axe.
Wesley Britt is a 3rd year pro out of Alabama who's played in 14 games over the past two seasons for the Pats. He's a decent back-up, and he knows the system. Rounding out the tackles is Lavdrim Bauta, an undrafted rookie out of Villanova. There's almsot no way he makes the team, but he's 6'5" 285, so he has room to grow and could be a developmental prospect if he makes it onto the Practice Squad.
Guard
The starters at guard are a lot clearer. The Patriots surprised most everyone by taking Logan Mankins with the last pick of the first round in 2005, but he's payed immense dividends. At 6'4" 310, he posses incredible strength for a guard and he plays with an absolutely frightening mean streak. He made his first Pro-Bowl last year, was selected as a second team All-Pro, and most informed observers will tell you he's just getting started. He's a road-grader in the run game, and a bulldog in pass protection, and he grows the best mountain man beard on the team.
While his teammate on the left side may get more press, his counterpart on the right has an equally interesting story. He never played football at Cal State-Bakersfield, instead focusing on wrestling, where he compiled a sparkling 151-10 record, capturing NCAA titles in his Junior and Senior years (he also finished 4th as a Freshman and 2nd as a Sophomore). After he narrowly missed making the 2000 Olympics team, he retired from amateur wrestling. He was signed by the Patriots before the 2001 season, and was cut in training camp, later being resigned during the season. He missed most of 2002 and all of 2003 with a shoulder injury he suffered against Green Bay while fighting for a fumble most players thought was a dropped pass, but in 2004 he grabbed the starting job and he hasn't looked back.
At 6'5", 315 lbs he's very mobile, even for a guard. He acquits himself well in pass coverage, but he's at his best in the run game. He is prone to holding penalties, but that's understandable given his history in wrestling. He missed 8 regular season games due to injury last year, but even more importantly, he went down in the second quarter of the Super Bowl with a knee injury. The Patriots are notoriously secretive concerning their injured players, but it did require surgery, and the stockpiling of veteran players could indicate a more serious situation than we can see on the surface.
The back-up situation at guard is quite good. Russ Hochstein is the primary back-up at both guard spots, as well as at center. He's fully capable of starting, but the Patriots use him as a sort of super-sub, rotating through those three spots whenever there are injuries or someone needs a spell. Billy Yates has been in the system for a few years, and run-blocks well enough but struggles in pass protection. I mentioned Oliver Ross under tackles since he'd played there in the past, but he's listed at both guard spots on the official depth-chart. Third year pro Dan Connelly was on the practice squad last year, and he grew up in Missouri, so he's probably unfailingly polite.
Center
Dan Koppen is as steady as they come at center. He's slightly undersized for a lineman, at 6'2" 296 lbs, but centers have been trending smaller in recent years anyway. He enters this season coming off of his first Pro Bowl and the honor of being named 2nd team All Pro. Koppen is a terrific run blocker, with the ability to go deep and take out linebackers, as well as the strength to deal with the ever growing nose tackles lined up over him. In pass protection, he not only offers terrific blocking skill, but calls all of the line audibles as well.
Ross Hochstein, as mentioned above, is a starting quality guy who acts as the primary pinch-hitter at the three inside spots. Gene Mruczkowski is a capable back-up, and he can slide down to guard in a pinch. Ryan Wendell and Jimmy Martin are both fringe guys. Martin has spent time with the Chargers and the Vikings, never cracking the roster, and Wendell is a rookie free agent. Both of them stand a chance to make the practice squad, but I'd give the edge to Wendell who's more a developmental guy (6'2", 285 lbs), as opposed to Martin who, at 25 probably is what he is.
Expectations
This unit is fairly young, very experienced, and they've been working with each other for a long time. There's a fair chance they could be the best unit in the league, but if they can even approach what they did last year, they'll be just fine.
Sleepers
In the case of an injury to Light or Kaczur, Ryan O'Callaghan could easily step in and give the Patriots a punishing run-blocker on the left or right side.
Under-The-Radar Contributor
Russ Hochstein will probably grab a start or two in the event of one of the guard or center starters going down, and there won't be much of a drop off at all in terms of level of play or rhythm.
Worrisome Thoughts
Although there is some real depth here, if Neal isn't good to go and if Kaczur goes the way of the dodo, it could start them off on the wrong foot. The injury bug can strike anywhere, and with Brady under center, it's vital to have good protection.
Depth Chart
*Matt Light
*Logan Mankins
*Dan Koppen
*Stephen Neal
*Nick Kaczur
Russ Hochstein
Ryan O'Callaghan
Anthony Clement
Billy Yates
Wesley Britt
Oliver Ross
Dan Connolly
Jimmy Martin
Ryan Wendell
Lavdrim Bauta
I'm predicting here that Neal will prove to be healthy, and that Kaczur sticks on the roster (he ended up participating in an FBI sting, and will have his misdemeanor case thrown out if he stays out of trouble for 6 months). After Mruczowski's retirement, the only real suspense here is at the end of the staff. I'm betting that Clement still has what it takes after starting for the past two years with the Jets, and that the Patriots will side with Yates and Britt since they've spent considerable time in the system. There's a good chance that some combination of Connolly, Wendell, or Bauta make the Practice Squad, since line coach Dante Scarnecchia loves to develop his own guys. Oliver Ross stands to be this years recipient of the Bam Childress Award, named after the marginal receiver/special teamer and given to the player who seems to be cut and resigned innumerable times during the season.
Key: Italics = rookie, *asterisk = starter,
Bottom Line
Again, this unit has the potential to be phenomenal, and at the worst, they'll be passable.
Grade
A
Final Thoughts
I know it reeks of homerism to be so unfailingly positive about my own team, but I really think I've been fair. I mean, it's not like last years offensive unit was the best in the history of the game or something. Oh, wait...
I'm not saying there won't be a fall-off, in fact I'm counting on it. After an outlier like last year, we're bound to regress, at least somewhat, to the mean. Still, that could still leave the New England offense as the best in the game. At the very worst, and I mean catastrophic injury plague, we're still probably top 5 in scoring.
Sleepers
I think it could be Chad Jackson's time to shine. The 3rd year is a critical one for receivers; they've had time to adjust to the speed of the league and the more complex pro-schemes. Jabar Gaffney could surprise too. If Jackson can't seize the starting spot from him, it would be Gaffney's first year as a full-time starting option in the Patriots system.
Under-The-Radar Contributor
Kevin Faulk does so much for this unit. He runs, catches, blocks, and does it all without complaining. You know that when you call his number, you can count on his reliability. He moves the chains in key 3rd-down situations, and acts as an excellent pinch-hitter off the bench when you need a change of pace. His final stats won't make him look like a star, but he's a key component to what the team does.
Worrisome Thoughts
Can the line recover from its pants-down ass whupping at the hands of the Giants? Will Maroney continue his growth into a formidable weapon? Will the Patriots run up the score as often as they can, or only when they're pissed off?
Bottom Line
As long as Brady remains healthy, this unit is one of, if not THE, best in the league. Without him, we might be lucky to aim for average.
Grade
A
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