Biggest strength I would say defensive front seven. You’ve got a number of first rounders – Mayo/Chandler/Hightower/Easley/Brown and a second rounder in Collins, also veteran Ninkovich and strong free agent Jabaal Sheard. Then mix in some very solid vets like Branch/Spikes/Siliga/Chris Jones/Siliga. It’s a very talented bunch and I am excited to see what their ceiling is if they can all stay healthy.
Not a surprise what the weakness is, it’s the cornerbacks. But the good news is that the safeties are pretty strong, so it just comes down to finding corners who can play the system and know what’s going on. Fletcher and McClain are the only two with any starting experience, and I think everyone is hoping the Butler and Ryan can take big steps forward this year. Plenty of wild card depth behind them, but who knows how it will all play out. I think every Patriots fan is nervous about this group.
Still, every team has spots of uncertainty right now. But uncertainty means opportunity and that’s when new gems are found. Let’s just hope that’s what happens.