new england patriots

As I spend more and more time trying to find the perfect 53 man roster it’s becoming clearer where the real competition for jobs will be. Here are the guys that I see in direct fights for roster spots. These will be great areas to watch against the Lions.

Darius Butler vs. Jonathan Wilhite: There have been some reports from camp that Butler has performed better in practice than he has in games. Some even going so far to say he’s had a really good camp. I’m not totally sold. I think he was better versus the Bucs, but I still lean Wilhite for the 4th CB slot.

Sergio Brown vs. James Ihedigbo:  Leaning Brown here as the 4th safety/special teams guy. Showed up really well in limited action last year. I do like what Ihedigbo brings to the table, wish I could figure out a way for him to make the 53-man.

Eric Moore vs. Mark Anderson: Could see both of these guys make it, but I don’t think Moore is the lock he once was. Might come down to whether he or Anderson are more capable on special teams/run downs. I’d give Anderson the pass rush edge, but Moore seems more versatile by a nose.

Brandon Tate vs. Taylor Price: Most projections have both these guys making the roster, but I know a lot of people pause for thought on Tate given the new kickoff rules. I think both should make it, but another performance by Price showing he’s ready for primetime could put Tate even more in the cross-hairs.

A couple other interesting guys that are on the bibble in my view but should make it are Tracy White and Matthew Slater. Neither would have to be relied upon in non-Special Teams roles (hopefully). But they certainly are facing competition from guys like Malcolm Williams, Niko Koutivides and Jeff Tarpinian.

Ultimately I think BB values reliable veteran presences on special teams, hence I think White and Slater should stick.