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Patriots: Best Value Players

By Kirk von Kreisler

Feb 1, 2015; Glendale, AZ, USA; New England Patriots outside linebacker Jamie Collins (91) reacts after a play during the first quarter against the Seattle Seahawks in Super Bowl XLIX at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 1, 2015; Glendale, AZ, USA; New England Patriots outside linebacker Jamie Collins (91) reacts after a play during the first quarter against the Seattle Seahawks in Super Bowl XLIX at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 20, 2015; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots defensive end Jabaal Sheard (93) reacts after a play against the Tennessee Titans in the second quarter at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 20, 2015; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots defensive end Jabaal Sheard (93) reacts after a play against the Tennessee Titans in the second quarter at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports /

5. Jabaal Sheard – two-years, $11 million (one year remaining)

As a rookie, Sheard exploded with the Cleveland Browns, recording 8.5 sacks, 3.5 more than the next closest player on the team. However, Sheard’s production regressed as the Browns moved towards a 3-4 defense with Sheard as an outside linebacker. Signing with New England was a chance to resurrect the former 37th overall draft pick. Some regarded the contract as extremely favorable for the Patriots as a third-down rusher and potential replacement for Rob Ninkovich.

However, Sheard would not end up being Ninkovich’s replacement. Sheard will now shift into a starting role to replace Chandler Jones and his 12.5 sacks last season. Sheard only played in 13 games this past season due to a lingering ankle injury, but he made the most of his opportunities, totaling four forced fumbles, tied second on the team with Jones, and eight sacks. Sheard’s play in his 677 snaps impressed many, even leading to Pro Football Focus listing him on their “Top 25 breakout players of the 2015 season” and grading him as the fifth-best run defender at his position.

These 30 players will definitely make the final roster

With more snaps this upcoming season, Sheard is a true candidate to become a common name in the NFL. Even if he only matched his eight sacks from last season, he would more than earn his $5.5 million average per year.

Next: 4. An Underrated Defensive Asset

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