Everyone loves putting together the pure pass rush front for third-and-longs, but as you mention I think there’s more question of how they fill the Wilfork role in the base nickel defense, and that’s also where I think Mayo still fits.
Especially if they’re playing more zone, you want Mayo’s speed at middle linebacker, and it also helps free up Hightower and Collins to play on the edges more.
I don’t know how it will all play out with Hightower and Mayo’s injury situations. I do know the Pats will probably try to restructure Mayo at some point, but they certainly can’t cut him until he’s healthy.
It’s easy to look at the depth in the front seven and think we have more than enough, but injuries often change things quickly and unexpectedly. Who’d have thought Malcolm Butler would take meaningful snaps in the Super Bowl when he was behind Revis/Browner/Arrington/Ryan/Dennard in training camp?
I do think one of the top corners in this draft class would be a nice addition and help overcome the loss of Revis, but I also think a big defensive tackle or guard would also be a welcome addition. Those are the spots most in need of young talent.