Mike Dussault

Remember back in 2010 when all we talked about was how specialized the Patriots defense was? There wasn’t much diversity with their defensive personnel, instead it was entirely predictable what they were trying to do based on the guys who were on the field.

But with the additions of this past weekend it’s clear the Patriots are focused on making their defense one that can excel against the passing teams they’ve struggled with the past couple years.

Some will wonder what took them the last three drafts to figure this out, but hey, they just made an entire draft class almost entirely out of defensive backs and pass rushers so let’s not complain too much.

Now, the Patriots set off into an offseason of great expectations with a defense that can emerge like a chameleon when the season starts. No one knows what it will eventually look like. That’s likely the way it will go week to week during the season, especially when opponents try to game plan offensively. The Patriots have the potential to dictate the style of the game defensively with the scheme they choose. Usually that’s what the opposing offense does.

Ebner wasn’t a recruit at all. But if there’s anyone who helped their NFL prospects with the 2011 Buckeyes, it may be Ebner. For a guy who didn’t play high school football, now contemplating making a living at the game is a bit surreal. Except Ebner, who competed at an elite level in rugby, couldn’t help but believe he’d have a shot. “

Did I think I’d be in a position to get drafted?” Ebner said. “No way. But to possibly play on a pro team? I’d like to say that was always maybe the goal, but I didn’t know how realistic it was until this past year.” Ebner was timed as fast as a 4.48 in the 40 at the pro day, showed his agility with a fast time in the three-cone drill and did well in the broad and vertical jumps. He figured he might do well at the tests, and what he proved is that at about 215 pounds, he could be a raw athlete with a lot of room for growth. That should make him worth a look as an across-the-board special teams player, either in the draft or in free agency. He has continued to talk with NFL teams since pro day. “I’m not getting overly excited about the draft,” Ebner said. “I just want a chance with a team. At the end of the day, you have to show up when it comes time to play.”