Fair point. I think Solder had an okay year last year, but it would be nice to see him take that final step into an elite left tackle. I certainly think he’s capable of it, just has had some inconsistency.
As for Hightower, I’m not sure what his role will be this year. On one hand I thought he overcame a rough start when Mayo went down and really came into his own toward the end of the season. He was really thrust into the spotlight and even admitted he might’ve been trying to do too much when he was suddenly the defensive signal caller.
But what will 2014 hold for him? Could it be that with Mayo back and Collins’ emergence that Hightower might be relegated to a two-down linebacker role? It’s certainly a possibility. The key for him as I see it is proving his worth on passing downs. He might not have the speed of Mayo and Collins but perhaps there’s a pass rushing role he could carve out for himself.
As for Chandler I think he just has to keep balling like he did last year. The talent level along the rest of the defensive line should be much improved and that should take some of the attention away from Chandler, enabling him to be even more productive. Just stick Easley out there and watch how much easier it gets for Chandler while the guard and center are trying to account for an interior defensive lineman flying off the ball.
Most of all the Pats just need Chandler to stay healthy, because if he goes down the dropoff at defensive end is precipitous.
