New England Patriots: 5 Most Important Players Of 2016

3 of 5

Jan 18, 2015; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots tackle Nate Solder (77) catches a pass from quarterback Tom Brady (12) and runs for a touchdown against the Indianapolis Colts in the third quarter in the AFC Championship Game at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports /

3. Nate Solder/Sebastian Vollmer

I cheated again. Sue me.

Remember, this is a list of most important players, not most talented players. Obviously neither Solder nor Vollmer are more talented players than Julian Edelman or the two linebackers, but they are more important to the success of this team.

Last year, the Patriots were ravaged by injuries. But of all the key players that went down, it turned out to be Nate Solder that hurt them the most. Because of their lack of depth at offensive tackle, if either of the two starters go down, Marcus Cannon is the next man up. He got eviscerated by Von Miller in the AFC Championship, and that is why we are not talking about the two-time defending Super Bowl champion Patriots right now.

With all the weapons he has at his disposal this year, and his lightning quick release, if Tom Brady is given any kind of time in the pocket, he will shred any defense that comes his way. Solder and Vollmer are two very good tackles, but if one of them goes down, it will be trouble for New England.

Next: Number Two

Home/Patriots News