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Ranking the Patriots’ interior defensive linemen

By Connor Fulton

Dec 13, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; New England Patriots defensive tackle Malcom Brown (90) recovers a fumble during the fourth quarter against the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium. The Patriots defeated the Texans 27-6. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 13, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; New England Patriots defensive tackle Malcom Brown (90) recovers a fumble during the fourth quarter against the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium. The Patriots defeated the Texans 27-6. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports /
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Anthony Johnson Patriots
Dec 7, 2014; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Miami Dolphins defensive tackle Anthony Johnson (76) and Miami Dolphins running back Lamar Miller (26) walk to the field before a game against the Baltimore Ravens at Sun Life Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports /

6. Anthony Johnson

2015 story: Johnson spent most of the 2015 season on the couch after getting cut by the Miami Dolphins in training camp (someone had to go with Ndamukong Suh and C.J. Mosley in town). The Redskins added Johnson to their practice squad late in the regular season, but Johnson was cut by the ‘Skins this past May, from which point the Pats picked him up. Johnson recorded two tackles and a fumble recovery with the Dolphins in 2014.

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Why he’s ranked at No. 6: Even though Johnson has been a non-factor in two NFL seasons, the fact remains that he is very talented and there is some potential to be tapped here. Remember, Vellano was also out of football for all of last year, and Hamilton is an unproven undrafted rookie.

Main training camp competitor(s): Vellano and Johnson, of course, but also Vincent Valentine and Markus Kuhn. First, Johnson must focus on differentiating himself from Vellano and Hamilton; then, he can contend with Valentine and Kuhn for a possible crack at the final roster.

Chances of making team: 2.5/10. Don’t count on it.

Next: 5. Vincent Valentine

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