New England Patriots vs. Arizona Cardinals: Six Players to Watch

Patriots vs. Cardinals Players to Watch Number Two: Jabaal Sheard   

With Rob Ninkovich suspended, Sheard is the unquestioned No. 1 defensive end for the Patriots entering Week 1. Chris Long, Trey Flowers and Shea McClellin will also be factors at the position, but Sheard will lead the way.

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It is paramount that the Patriots establish a fierce pass rush in the first quarter and sustain it throughout the game to put 36-year-old quarterback Carson Palmer on his heels; Sheard will head that effort.

Additionally, Sheard will be motivated to perform because Chandler Jones will be watching on the sideline. Surely, Sheard will want to outperform his former defensive end teammate and show the NFL that the Patriots are better off with him as their top edge pass rusher, that the trade of Jones not only saved 2017 cap space but also made sense from a personnel perspective.

Next: 1. The Johnsons