NESO'S TAKE ON SPORTS

I’ve gone over the Jets and the Dolphins, and now it comes down to the Patriots.

Obviously, I’m presenting these articles well before the season starts, even before the draft, meaning that draft day selections or blockbuster trades could greatly alter the look of any of the aforementioned teams. That being said, here is the analysis for next season’s New England Patriots.

Offense:

Offensively, the Patriots are set at quarterback, and have a very solid offensive line. Sebastian Vollmer proved he was a dominant tackle, shutting down every end he faced (including Dwight Freeney). This gives the Patriots more depth at offensive line, something they have actually lacked in years past.

In terms of running back, the Patriots could use help, but the situation is not terrible. Laurence Maroney is a below-average every down back in the NFL, and will crack off a big run now and then. Last season, he was healthy, and he posted decent numbers, averaging just below four yards per carry.

The Pats do not need to kill themselves to find a starting, pro-bowl running back, but adding a backup who can complement Maroney would be helpful.

In terms of wide receiver, the team has some questions. When Wes Welker returns, he would be the obvious number two behind Randy Moss. Behind Wes would be Julian Edelman, who was very good filling in for Welker, and showed a lot of passion in the playoff games.

After Edelman, Brandon Tate should have a role. He was hurt for most of last season, but many scouts say he could develop into a nice number two receiver if healthy.

Hey! Four good receivers, sounds good, right?

Unfortunately, Welker is probably not going to dress up for the first few games of the season, meaning the Patriots have questions at the #3 slot and beyond. I think they’ll address this need in the draft, probably with a second round and fourth round pick.

The team just added Alge Crumpler, a veteran tight end who can catch and block, and I think he’ll fit nicely into the Patriots’ scheme (smart, versatile player).

Defense:

So many questions surrounded the Patriot secondary last season. However, the fastest way to fix a shaky secondary is by adding a pass rush.

The secondary was not nearly as bad as it seemed, as give any quarterback in the NFL 5-6 seconds to throw the ball and he can shred a defense. The Patriots’ primary concern as a team is the lack of a pass rusher.

I expect them to draft an OLB/DE in the first round, and probably another front seven player in the second.

Keeping Wilfork was key, as was Banta-Cain.

The secondary was young last season, and showed promise (Brandon Meriweather was a Pro-Bowler, James Sanders seemed to finally gain consistency) and Leigh Bodden should anchor an average unit of corners.

Darius Butler, I think, can develop into a solid corner, and next year we’ll know for sure.

Overall:

The Patriots are one-two good draft picks away from keeping their top spot in the AFC East, but as of now the Jets seem to be a better team.

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