Patriots: Ranking positions by strength

Sep 27, 2015; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski (87) congratulates wide receiver Josh Boyce (82) after his touchdown run against the Jacksonville Jaguars in the second half at Gillette Stadium. The Patriots defeated the the Jacksonville Jaguars 51-17. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports /

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Jan 16, 2016; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots cornerback Malcolm Butler (21) celebrates from the field against the Kansas City Chiefs during the second half in the AFC Divisional round playoff game at Gillette Stadium. The Patriots won 20-27. Mandatory Credit: Stew Milne-USA TODAY Sports /

5. Cornerbacks

One year after undergoing a huge amount of change at the position, the Patriots can point to cornerback as one of their strengths on defense thanks to the ascendance of Butler and growth of Ryan.

Going forward, expect the Patriots to continue giving safety help to Ryan in coverage against No. 1 wideouts and letting Butler shutdown the No. 2 on his lonesome.

Where the Patriots are weak at cornerback is the No. 3 and No. 4 spots. Justin Coleman, Leonard Johnson and Rashaan Melvin vied for nickel duties all season, but none emerged as an overwhelming solution to the problem.

What the Patriots should do over the offseason: Target lanky 6-foot-2 prospect Deiondre’ Hall in the 2016 NFL Draft and mull over the possibility of signing standout slot man Brandon Boykin in free agency.

Next: 4. Defensive line

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