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10 Most promising sophomore pros on Patriots roster

By Connor Fulton

Sep 27, 2015; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots outside linebacker Geneo Grissom (92) before the start of the game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: James Lang-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 27, 2015; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots outside linebacker Geneo Grissom (92) before the start of the game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: James Lang-USA TODAY Sports /
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Shaq Mason Patriots
Jan 24, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) and offensive lineman Shaq Mason (69) against the Denver Broncos in the AFC Championship football game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

5. Shaq Mason

What makes him promising: He’s only been in the NFL for one year, but Mason is already one of the league’s better run blockers. As Jimmy Garoppolo gets caught up to speed and as Tom Brady ages, it’s paramount that the Patriots run the ball better than they have in past years, and Mason’s snowplowing will be a major factor.

Training camp competition: Similar to Jackson, Mason must make sure he keeps newcomers Cooper, Thuney and Karras at bay while maintaining his spot in the three-man guard rotation.

Bryan Stork, Woodrow Hamilton ejected from minicamp practice

2016 expectations: 16 starts and a major reason why the Patriots’ ground game ranks in the top five.

Optimistic 2016 forecast: A Pro Bowl nod as the league takes notice of Mason’s outstanding run blocking.

Next: 4. Brandon King

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