3 players Patriots wish they still had on current roster

2. Kyle Van Noy

The Patriots are lacking an anchor in the middle of their defense.

The Patriots still have a ton of playmakers and leadership on defense, but it’s clear the group is starting to feel the effects of losing a collection of starters from 2019. Not even the genius that is Belichick can overcome that much turnover.

While we understand that the Patriots’ salary cap situation was crippling at the start of the offseason, they could have done a better job in terms of pushing the envelope to re-sign some of their defensive anchors. Look no further than the Rams and Saints signing players to extensions left and right despite having minimal financial wiggle room.

Outside linebacker Kyle Van Noy, who signed a four-year, $51 million contract with Miami back in March, fills that bill. Over the last three seasons, the former second-round pick was arguably the Patriots’ most important player on defense, compiling 221 tackles (19 for loss), 15.5 sacks, 34 QB hits, seven passes defended, four forced fumbles and four fumble recoveries.

Though second-year pro Chase Winovich has shown flashes through three games filling in at the OLB spot, there’s no denying that the Patriots could use Van Noy’s commanding presence and invaluable versatility.