The Patriots offense has captured all the headlines this offseason, but the defensive (and especially linebacking) unit could use some upgrades as well.
The Patriots linebacking corps is in a bit of a transition period with a lot of top veterans leaving in recent years. Meanwhile, many young players have been given chances in Ja’Whaun Bentley, Chase Winovich, Anfernee Jennings and Josh Uche this past season, so the future isn’t so bleak.
They’ve have had some promising performances, but displayed many rookie mistakes. A full NFL season under their belt and hopefully a more normal training camp leading up to next season should help them make the jump into reliable forces on the defensive end.
But the only veteran set to return and help out is Dont’a Hightower, and we’re really not sure how certain that is, especially due to his concerns regarding the pandemic. Also, how effective will he be at the onset after taking a year off? We have no idea.
If you don’t think the Patriots would use their top selections on a linebacker, then you don’t know Bill Belichick. Is it their biggest need? No, but Belichick understands the importance of a staunch defensive unit. One could argue free agency is an option, but perhaps Belichick wants to spend that money elsewhere. After all this team needs wide receivers, offensive linemen, defensive linemen, defensive backs and tight ends.
So what about a trade? These three guys could fit the bill for New England.
3. Von Miller
Could the guy who terrorized the Patriots in the 2015 AFC Championship game be a perfect veteran piece for the linebacking corps?
Von Miller has a lot going on right now. He’s recovering from season-ending surgery while being under investigation by police in Colorado. Not great.
Obviously dependent on the outcome of both situations, Miller is one of the best linebackers in the game when healthy and would be a coveted chip in any potential trade.
A guy you can count on for double-digit sack totals a season, Miller is a beast coming off the edge. As much as he loves getting to the opposing quarterback, Miller is versatile and would be a dream for Belichick to use in creating defensive mismatches. His size and speed combo is extremely rare.
Plus, this guy mentoring our promising young group of ‘backers? We’ll take it.
Miller’s contract is hefty to say the least, but at $22 million for one year, the Patriots could request the Broncos retain some salary, part with a later-round draft pick, and use Miller to their advantage in 2021. Who knows. Maybe it works out and he ends up staying.
2. Chandler Jones
The 2010s All-Decade Patriots linebacker would be a great player to bring back.
Another guy who underwent season-ending surgery (due to a right bicep injury), Chandler Jones is veteran who’se career is far from over.
A great pass-rusher who is an animal coming off the edge, Jones is a guaranteed double-digit sack machine per year and has been close to 20 a few times. His ability to stop the run has been the only knock on him in his career, but he isn’t a complete liability in that respect, and the other aspects of his game make up for that deficiency.
As much as Belichick doesn’t love to overpay for “past their prime” players, he’s always willing to bring back previous Patriots and has had much success doing so. Jamie Collins is a great example. Jones’ familiarity with the system would go a long way in helping the Pats’ defense get back on track.
Not only that, but Hightower would absolutely love to see his old buddy back in New England.
Jones carries a big salary for 2021 (over $20 million) like Miller, but that only helps the Patriots in trade talks. The Cardinals can either eat salary or take on a later pick if they’re willing to move him.
1. Vince Williams
Could the cheaper option out of Pittsburgh be the best fit for the Patriots?
Vince Williams is by no means the same game-changing player that Miller and Jones can be, but he’s a reliable, steady option that can get the job done.
A strong player who can ward off blockers, Williams can rush the passer and is also a great run stuffer. He’s a tackle specialist at heart and is good for several sacks a season.
The one knock on Williams has been his ability in pass coverage. He doesn’t possess the athleticism to go toe-to-toe with the better running backs and tight ends in space, but his football IQ is enough to get him into the right place from time to time. You don’t think Belichick can put him in the right spots?
Williams’ run stopping ability would be a great addition to this Patriots team after what we saw this past season. More good news? He would come much cheaper at $7 million price tag for one year. He’d be a great mentor, and his work ethic feels like it’d seamlessly fit the Patriot Way.
Is a trade the best route for the Patriots’ hunt to bolster the linebacker position?
The Patriots have tons of young talent at this position, but they may be another season away from being able to be trusted fully by Belichick. That said, if the Pats want to compete in 2020, another veteran to (hopefully) line up next to Hightower should be a priority this offseason.
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