Expectations of Patriots’ fourth-year players

Last week, we handed out expectations for Patriots players entering their third year with the team. This morning, we’re going to continue this avenue of analysis and list expectations for fourth-year Patriots players. Again, this list does not include just any player on the roster entering their third year, just players who have been in New England since the 2013 season.

[Editor’s note: All stats come by way of Pro Football Reference.]

7. Jamie Collins (2013 second-rounder)

2013 stats: 16 games (eight starts), 43 combined tackles, five passes defended, fumble recovery

2014 stats: 15 games (15 starts), 115 combined tackles, four sacks, six passes defended, four fumbles forced, two fumbles recovered, two interceptions

2015 stats: 12 games (12 starts), 89 combined tackles, 5.5 sacks, six passes defended, five fumbles forced, fumble recovered, interception

Food for thought: Jamie Collins at tight end

Collins’ career took off in the 2013 Divisional Round when he made a statement against Andrew Luck, and he hasn’t looked back. His sophomore season built upon that January performance; Collins’ quick development and emergence as a star was instrumental in the Patriots’ super season of 2014.

Unfortunately, illness plagued Collins midway through 2015 and he missed a month. But he still managed to lead the Patriots in tackles, so that speaks for itself. It should also be noted that Collins tied for the league lead in fumbles forced last season.

Predicting every Patriots game of 2016

2016 expectations: 15 games (15 starts), 99 combined tackles, 7.5 sacks, seven passes defended, six fumbles forced, three fumbles recovered, three interceptions

The stats you see listed above are Defensive Player of the Year worthy. The reasoning here is that Collins is going to flirt with that honor until he declines out of his prime.

Next: 6. Aaron Dobson