Disclaimer – I pay ZERO attention to college football, potential free agents or the draft until the day after the Pats’ season ends.
DT: I think defensive tackle is easily the biggest need, but I’ve been beating that drum for three seasons now. Hopefully the right guy falls, but a young, dominant interior player is the most glaring missing piece. I like Chris Jones as a rotational guy, Vellano should have a spot as well. But even if Wilfork, Kelly and Armstead come back the group still needs a young boost.
WLB/MLB: They need another linebacker besides Mayo who can run and cover. I like Mayo, but I don’t love him. Especially after watching Luke Kuechly play (and yes, even hold). Not saying they should or will try to replace Mayo, but in today’s NFL you need at least a couple LBs who can really move.
Guard/Center: Even if they like Connolly they need some youth behind him and Wendell. I’d argue upgrading Connolly should be a priority. They have a decision on Wendell to make this offseason as he’s a free agent.
CB: Who knows what will happen with Talib. His injury and meltdown should lower his price a bit, but I’m no longer convinced the Pats will use the Franchise Tag on him. I think this hip is enough of a recurring problem it might limit the ceiling of any offer they’ll make him. Regardless they always seem to need corners. Arrington is tough and good in the slot, but I’d really like to keep him off the perimeter. Dennard is a building block (as long as he’s not going to jail) and honestly might be better than Talib though he’s undersized. How much of a priority a CB is might depend on how much they like Logan Ryan.
TE: I’d take a blocking tight end or a move tight end. They need to layer some depth in there. Not sure Mulligan or Hooman are long term solutions.
Safety: Still need a legit strong safety who can play the Money role. I like Gregory but I think Harmon could potentially replace him. Adrian Wilson was the right idea in theory. They could use a big, tough guy for sub-packages.
QB: They should start grooming someone behind Brady and the search should begin in his draft. Not sold Mallett is the answer.