With the losses of Trey Flowers and Malcom Brown, the defensive line will be a position the New England Patriots would be wise to focus on.
Regardless of a team’s game-plan and scheme, defensive linemen are an essential part of a team’s roster.
Every single play is won and lost in the trenches, and pressure is a sure-fire way to limit any quarterback. With the loss of edge rusher Trey Flowers and defensive tackle Malcom Brown, the Patriots lost two of their most explosive disrupters across the defensive front. Knowing the absolute necessity of having players that can make an impact across the line, head coach Bill Belichick would be wise to focus on rebuilding the defensive line in the upcoming draft.
First Round
Jeffery Simmons, Miss State, DL:
Simmons is widely regarded as one of the best interior rushers in the country and was being hailed as a definite first-round pick entering the offseason.
Unfortunately, the prospect tore his ACL during preparation for the NFL Combine and will most likely miss his first season. Belichick has a history of taking talented defensive tackles that have been hindered by injuries (i.e. Malcom Brown, Dominique Easley), and Simmons could still provide elite talent when he returns from his rehabilitation.
Dexter Lawrence, Clemson, DL:
There are multiple different opinions on the former National Champion.
On one hand, Lawrence was dominant as a freshman and looked like he was going to be an early pick when he inevitably declared for the draft. However, Lawrence hasn’t improved his game since and actually declined slightly. His play is still quite impressive, but the negative turnaround for the budding player is quite a poor sign. Still, Lawrence has the size and athleticism to become a professional and has the potential to become a stud with the right coaching.
Second Round
Jachai Polite, Florida, DE:
Polite has the potential to go anywhere from the first day of the draft to the end of the second day.
With a bulky frame combined with speed, Polite is a physical rusher who has no problem going through players to reach whoever he is pursuing. Unfortunately, he has had off the field problems leading up to the draft and was reported to have had a disappointing pro-day. With a glaring need at the edge rusher spot, the Pats could have no choice but to take a chance on Polite at the end of the second round.
Dre’mont Jones, Ohio State, DL:
Although he is small for a defensive tackle, Jones does not let his size hinder his game. Shockingly quick for a short defensive tackle, Jones excels at interior disruption. Jones seems most comfortable in the trenches, but it would not be out of the question to use the speedster as a 3-4 defensive end. With noticeable talent as an interior rusher, Jones could be one of the safer defensive tackles available in this year’s draft.
Third Round
Isaiah Buggs, Alabama, DL:
One obvious reason for Buggs being drafted is his alma mater, as Belichick absolutely loves drafting players from Alabama. Another reason is his versatility, as Buggs can play on the outside or inside of the line.
The Alabama product only played for two years in college but was Alabama’s most productive pass-rusher last year. While in school, he started every game he played in. Buggs could be a locker-room problem if paired with a weak coach, as his drive is severely lacking for a player looking to become a professional.
Chase Winovich, Michigan, DE:
Winovich has improved each year as a player, earning a third team All-American spot last year. The energized edge rusher would be a perfect player for Belichick, as Winovich has an undying desire to be the best player he can be.
One factor that will limit his draft stock is his availability on the field, as Winovich doesn’t have the athleticism to play outside linebacker and is limited in coverage. Still, his localized skill-set is clean, and he will motivate all of his teammates around him to hustle.
