New England Patriots: 53-man roster projection after two preseason games
By Brian Hines
Linebacker (5): Ja’Whaun Bentley, Marquis Flowers, Don’t Hightower, Brandon King, Kyle Van Noy
With Hightower back, the Patriots linebacker core immediately is better than last seasons. Many thought New England would upgrade their linebacking core through free agency or earlier in the draft, but Belichick waited until the fifth and sixth round to draft Ja’Whaun Bently and Chritisan Sam respectively.
Bentley racked up an impressive college resume racking up 97 total tackles last season at Purdue. Bentley graded out as the top linebacker in the 2018 draft class at 91.2 out of 100, according to Pro Football Focus. His run defense grade in the PFF system was an outstanding 95.0 out of 100, and he had a career-best 79.6 coverage grade in his senior season with the Boilermakers as well.
The knock on Bentley was his size and lack of speed, but the young linebacker looks fast in space and quicker to react to passing plays. The Patriots have moved Bentley all around the field on defense and he’s been one of, if not, their best player on that side of the ball.
Kyle Van Noy remains a solid starter alongside Hightower and Marquis Flowers’ speed brings a value to the unit along with special teamers. Brandon King makes the team yet again due to his large role on special teams.