New England Patriots: Early 53-Man Roster Projection

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Dec 18, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; New England Patriots outside linebacker Rob Ninkovich (50) and outside linebacker Shea McClellin (58) react following the win over the Denver Broncos at Sports Authority Field. The Patriots defeated the Broncos 16-3. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports /

Linebackers (6)

Starters: Dont’a Hightower, Elandon Roberts, Rob Ninkovich

Depth: Shea McClellin, Brandon King, Harvey Langi*

Dont’a Hightower is a lock to start at outside linebacker with Rob Ninkovich, Kyle Van Noy, and Shea McClellin rotating on the opposite side. Ninkovich will split time at defensive end and linebacker while Van Noy and McClellin duel for the spot behind him. Roberts came on strong as a rookie – he gets the nod at middle linebacker.

Cut: Jonathan Freeny, Trevor Bates, Brooks Ellis*

Cornerbacks (5)

Starters: Malcolm Butler, Stephon Gilmore

Depth: Eric Rowe, Jonathan Jones, Justin Coleman

Together, Butler and Gilmore form one of the NFL’s best cornerback tandems. Cyrus Jones needs to make a big jump if he wants to make the roster. 2016 undrafted free agent Jonathan Jones’ top-end speed and special teams ability land him a spot on the roster over the former second-round pick.

Cut: Cyrus Jones, Dwayne Thomas*, Kenny Moore*

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