Given that the Patriots could use both additional pass-rushing and D-line depth, is there a way for them to double dip by drafting a ‘one-gapping’ D-lineman who can get into the backfield? Would it be ‘cheaper’ in the draft than a DE and would a player like that be able to make an impact in his first year?

You’re speaking my language, brother. Defensive Ends and Linebackers are the only positions anyone talks about when it comes to pass rush, but really the best and most effective pass rushers are those coming from the inside. 

As I’ve said over and over again in recent years, the Pats were deficient in this area because they tended to have more nose tackle-types inside. It worked well in protecting against sub-runs and Wilfork was clearly a beast inside that caused problems, but they just didn’t have that upfield presence and I think they really paid for it on third-and-longs. They were the third-worst defense in the NFL from 2010-2013 on 3rd-and-8-plus yards.

So yes, I think guys like Chris Jones (as part of a rotation, not playing 90% of the snaps), Armond Armstead and even Chandler sliding inside should help the interior rush. But a guy like Easley, who embodies all that I want, would really be a great addition.

There’s still a place for big space eaters, but they just need to have more depth with different kinds of d-linemen.