We’ve seen plenty of them together this year so not much will change in that regard, but we will see more Akiem Hicks in Easley’s role as an interior rusher who played about 30% of the snaps.
As disappointed as I am to lose Easley so close to the playoffs, I’m excited to see them using a pure pass rusher in this way. Usually Belichick is ahead of the curve on these things, but I think we spent far too many seasons with Wilfork playing third downs. Not only did it wear him out but he just couldn’t consistently push the pocket.
Usually a first round pick who only plays 30% of the snaps might be a red flag, but I still think it’s perfect for Easley and luckily they have the depth with Hicks to slide him in there and not have to wear out Brown and Branch after their early down duties.