Patriots: 3 position battles that could have surprising endings

2. Davon Godchaux vs Christian Barmore

As previously mentioned, the Patriots overhauled their entire roster this offseason. However, perhaps no position was revamped as much as defensive tackle, which saw New England sign free agents Davon Godchaux, Montravius Adams and Henry Adams, and then trade up for Christian Barmore in the second round of the draft.

While the Patriots don’t generally give rookies big roles on defense, Barmore could break that trend if he manages to beat out Godchaux for one of the two starting spots. Of course, the other spot will likely be held down by a rotation of Lawrence Guy (who can start on the edge if need be) and Deatrich Wise, both of whom were re-signed this offseason.

Patriots: Could Christian Barmore beat out Davon Godchaux this offseason?

Though Barmore will have his work cut out for him to lock down a prominent role along the Patriots’ defensive front, which normally starts just two DTs, it goes without saying the Alabama product has the highest ceiling of a group. In two years with the Crimson Tide, Barmore tallied 63 tackles (15.5 for loss), 10 sacks, five passes defended and three forced fumbles.

Godchaux, meanwhile, was limited to just five games in 2020 due to a torn bicep. The four-year pro was one of New England’s first free agent signings this offseason, which was very surprising given his lack of success defending the run.

When you consider the Pats had the league’s worst run defense by DVOA last year, don’t be surprised if Barmore and his run-stuffing prowess end up beating out Godchaux.