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Top 3 Positions the Patriots could target in FA

By Jaydeen Allen

Jan 3, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears running back Matt Forte (22) runs off the field after the NFL game against the Detroit Lions at Soldier Field. The Lions won 24-20. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 3, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears running back Matt Forte (22) runs off the field after the NFL game against the Detroit Lions at Soldier Field. The Lions won 24-20. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports /
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Linebacker

2015 Depth Chart:

OLB Dont’a Hightower

OLB Jamie Collins

MLB Jonathan Freeny

OLB Jon Bostic

MLB Dane Fletcher (IR)

OLB Eric Martin (IR)

OLB Darius Fleming

MLB Dekoda Watson

MLB Kevin Synder 

The Patriots arguably have two of the best linebackers in the NFL in Dont’a Hightower and Jamie Collins. Hightower is essentially the “QB” of the defense showing intelligence, strength, and speed becoming one of the most valuable players on the team. Collins has also demonstrated he can lead the defense, as he did at times the past two years, and is also a freakish athletic linebacker.

Ranking Patriots’ positional groups by strength

It was evident that after Jerod Mayo was injured for the third time in three seasons, the drop off in production and talent is like a cliff. Freeny has showed ability to be a valuable replacement, but otherwise the production from other linebackers have been average or below.

The linebacker position is one of the most crucial positions, especially in a Bill Belichick defense. The Patriots are going to need strong options for depth. If they can’t find a veteran in free agency, they may look at the draft. But in the meantime, here are three options for the Patriots in March:

Next: Possible Candidates

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