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Decent news yesterday afternoon that Danny Amendola only has a knee sprain and won’t miss “significant” time, but after Jabaal Sheard and Marcus Cannon’s “minor” injuries that kept them out for more than a month, I’m not counting on having Amendola back for at least the next two, maybe more. This should be fascinating to watch unfold as BB scrambles to put together a competent passing offense on the fly with LaFell, Harper and hopefully Keyshawn Martin.

I had really hoped to see more out of Scott Chandler this year. Not sure what the issue is but he’s not much of a factor and I think I”m done waiting for his breakout game. They sure could use him in Denver but I won’t hold my breath.

What a difference Easley and Sheard are making on this defense. Finally it’s a diverse pass rush that can consistently win and it leaves me scratching my head wondering why it took this long? Why were we running Chandler Jones and Ninkovich into the ground from 2012-2014? 

Easley is so disruptive, he really is the player I’ve been dreaming about since I started blogging Pats. We all just though “oh, his explosive get-off will be huge for pass rush”, but really it’s great at blowing up runs too.

Don’t take this the wrong way, but I think not having Wilfork anymore is a tiny blessing as well in the pass rush department. The rotation of tackles is so effective and versatile.

And what about Malcom Brown. He’s not getting much heat for rookie of the year, but he’s been better than I had hoped he’d be this year. He’s already their best defensive tackle on early downs. He and Easley are cornerstones in their respective roles, both vital.

Dane Fletcher and Chris Jones will not be activated this year and it’s not totally surprising given that injuries haven’t hit too hard at DL and LB. With Mayo rounding into form it takes some of the need I perceived for Fletcher. We’ll see them next summer.

This is such a strange year considering the way this team will limp to the finish line likely with a bye, then (hopefully) get their best receiver back for the playoffs. If Brady can develop chemistry with just one other guy – Harper/Chandler/Martin – it will only make them that much stronger in the playoffs.

I changed my mind yesterday. I don’t think Belichick will force the issue of going undefeated if they hit 14 or 15 wins. This team is just too banged up and already on the edge. With the early bye and some assured dogfights coming up they’ll need rest far more than another meaningless perfect regular season.