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Expectations of third-year Patriots players

By Connor Fulton

Nov 23, 2015; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots running back James White (28) scores a touchdown against Buffalo Bills free safety Corey Graham (20) during the first half at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark L. Baer-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 23, 2015; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots running back James White (28) scores a touchdown against Buffalo Bills free safety Corey Graham (20) during the first half at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark L. Baer-USA TODAY Sports /
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Cameron Fleming Patriots
Dec 13, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Texans defensive end J.J. Watt (99) rushes against New England Patriots offensive tackle Cameron Fleming (71) during the second quarter at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Cameron Fleming

2014 stats: seven games, two starts

2015 stats: 12 games, seven starts

The Patriots were forced to start Fleming more than they would have liked because of the injury bug that ravaged the tackle position, starting with the loss of Nate Solder for the season. Fleming is a decent NFL backup, but certainly not someone you want protecting the blind spot of a 38-year-old future Hall of Fame quarterback.

Reordering CB depth chart after signing of E.J. Biggers

There’s no doubt that Fleming is a solid pro, and he’s definitely a smart guy having obtained a double major in aeronautics and astronautics from Stanford. He’s just not someone you want starting every game at tackle.

2016 expectations: eight games, three starts

The above expectation is based on the assumption that the Patriots won’t face as much injury adversity on the offensive line and Fleming will be called upon at a lesser rate. Let’s hope so, at least.

Next: 1. Bryan Stork

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