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Predicting New England Patriots depth chart: Pre-minicamp edition

By Connor Fulton

May 26, 2016; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12), quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo (10) and rookie quarterback Jacoby Brissett (7) look on during OTA
May 26, 2016; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12), quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo (10) and rookie quarterback Jacoby Brissett (7) look on during OTA /
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Jamie Collins Patriots depth chart
Jan 24, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning (18) is tackled by New England Patriots outside linebacker Jamie Collins (91) during the second half in the AFC Championship football game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports /

LINEBACKERS (5)

Jamie Collins

Dont’a Hightower

Shea McClellin

Jonathan Freeny

Kamu Grugier-Hill

Practice squad: Elandon Roberts

Cut: Ramon Humber, Rufus Johnson, C.J. Johnson, Kevin Snyder

It’s anyone’s guess as to how this position shakes out after Collins and Hightower, especially after the Patriots initially trying out McClellin at defensive end. But since the Patriots have McClellin listed as “WLB” on the official roster, we’re going to go ahead and peg him as the No. 3 guy.

He wasn’t spectacular last season, but Freeny was a solid No. 3 himself, overtaking Jerod Mayo on the depth chart by midseason. Freeny boasts special teams ability to back up his decent play on settled defense, so he will make the team.

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Speaking of special teams potential, Grugier-Hill’s speedy 215-pound frame makes him an interesting prospect to say the least. In addition, Grugier-Hill’s offering as a hybrid linebacker/safety is something Bill Belichick will love having on his roster.

Draft pick Roberts makes the practice squad because he is such a good tackler (Roberts led the country with 88 solo tackles last season). Veteran Humber gets the chop despite his special teams ability.

Next: Cornerbacks (5)

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