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3 ripple effects of Patriots acquiring Barkevious Mingo

By Connor Fulton

Nov 15, 2015; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Cleveland Browns outside linebacker Barkevious Mingo (51) commits a roughing the passer penalty against Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) during the second quarter at Heinz Field. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 15, 2015; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Cleveland Browns outside linebacker Barkevious Mingo (51) commits a roughing the passer penalty against Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) during the second quarter at Heinz Field. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jamie Collins Patriots
Aug 11, 2016; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots outside linebacker Jamie Collins (91) on the sidelines during the second half against the New Orleans Saints at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports /

1. Bolstered linebacker depth.

The other possibility for Mingo in New England lies not at defensive end, but linebacker. We could see the Patriots apply Mingo’s improved size, as noted by Mike Reiss below, to the second level.

Being in the neighborhood of 250 pounds would certainly help Mingo fill running lanes and finish tackles.

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If the Patriots shifted Mingo to linebacker, they would be adding depth to a position that could use some improvement after Dont’a Hightower and Jamie Collins. Jonathan Freeny is solid but isn’t about to contend for a Pro Bowl spot, and Kamu Grugier-Hill is better suited in a hybrid safety role at 220 pounds; Ramon Humber and Elandon Roberts are a bit undersized for the Pats to use very often. Mingo could be a huge boost if linebacker is indeed his calling.

Next: 3 ripple effects of Nate Washington release

Go Pats.

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