New England Patriots Roster Projection: No Tom Brady…
By Cyrus Geller
DEFENSE
Defensive Tackle: (4) Alan Branch, Malcom Brown, Terrance Knighton, Vincent Valentine
Probably the most straight-forward position on the team. They have four very talented tackles, and all will likely get significant playing time.
Defensive End: (5) Chris Long, Jabaal Sheard, Rob Ninkovich, Trey Flowers, Geneo Grissom
Replacing Chandler Jones will be tough, but it will be done by a committee. Sheard and Ninkovich will be the starters, but Long and hopefully Flowers will be able to contribute on third downs in the pass rush.
Linebacker: (4) Jamie Collins, Dont’a Hightower, Shea McClellin, Jonathan Freeny
The only question here is if sixth round pick Kamu Grugier-Hill will make the team as a fifth linebacker/safety. Right now, I’m leaning towards no, simply because he doesn’t have a set position yet, and the Pats are loaded at safety.
Cornerback: (5) Logan Ryan, Malcolm Butler, Justin Coleman, Cyrus Jones, Jonathan Jones
The top four have been set for awhile, but in one of the biggest surprises of camp, Jones has leaped over Darryl Roberts for that fifth spot. Things could certainly change as the preseason begins, but as it sits right now, it appears Roberts is on the outside looking in.
Safety: (5) Devin McCourty, Patrick Chung, Duron Harmon, Jordan Richards, Brandon King
The big question here will be how Nate Ebner being on the Olympic rugby team affects his status with the Patriots. He may have to start the season on a reserve list, in which case Brandon King will take his spot, at least until Ebner is ready.
Special Teams: (4) Stephen Gostkowski, Ryan Allen, Joe Cardona, Matthew Slater
No surprises here. Gostkowski and Slater are both the best in the game at what they do, and I am expecting another great season from them.