Patriots Pro Bowlers: Why these seven players made the roster

Kevin Hoffman-USA TODAY Sports

4. Jamie Collins

That Collins made the Pro Bowl despite missing an entire month speaks volumes about his growing stardom. 2015 has truly been a career year for Collins, highlighted by his 5.5 sacks, four forced fumbles (tied for most in the league) and this outstanding block of an extra point back in Week 6 against the Indianapolis Colts:

Collins is the complete package as a linebacker. He boasts blazing speed for a 250-pounder along with excellent run-stuffing ability, making him the ideal dance partner for Dont’a Hightower at inside linebacker.

Patriots should try Jamie Collins at tight end

Without a doubt, Collins is one of the most athletic players in the entire league on both sides of the ball. Earlier today, this writer went so far as to wonder if the Patriots should implement Collins in the offense as a tight end every now and then.

The Patriots may not have had a first round pick in the 2013 draft, but they made an excellent decision by drafting Collins the first time they went on the clock in the back end of the second round.

Next: 3. Chandler Jones