Leading up to the first preseason game is always an interesting time to analyze what your team looks like. That being said, this roster will be very different opening night at ‘Zona, but for now let’s work with what we think we know.
On paper, this is arguably the most gifted Patriots’ squad since ’07. Forget about the Brady led offense for now; I first want to focus on the depth and talent on the other side of the ball. The defense is loaded with more than capable playmakers at every level. Up front, there’s about 1,000 pounds of force between the expected 3-man rotation at D-tackle, 2nd year breakout candidate Malcom Brown, veteran Alan Branch, and newcomer Terrance “Pot-Roast” Knighton.
These are versatile and talented big men that will allow Belichick/Patricia to mix up 3 and 4 man looks up front. Rookie Vincent Valentine and/or ex-Giant Markus Kuhn should provide quality depth behind the aforementioned trio. On the edge, I’m not as worried about the loss of Chandler Jones as the next guy.
[Read more…] about Brady’s Best Shot? A Look at Present and Future Patriots
After 
By now you’ve probably heard, 
The Patriots got in one last practice before the Saints come to town for two joint practices and the first preseason game on Thursday night. There should be a lot to take in over the next two days. Going against a new team after hitting the same people for the last week-and-a-half will be a nice change in pace for the players. It should also give us a chance to get a better sense of how some of our new guys are adjusting to the system.