Quote:
Originally Posted by BelizePats
With all the crap that's been flying around here about this rediculous Spygate story, I'd like to turn the focus back to football.
In subtracting both Samuel and Gay, we have lost alot of experience at a vital position. I feel good about how we addressed this with the draft and with the Wheatley pick in particular, but I can't really see how these kids will contribute much the first year. I just remember how lost Meriweather was early last year and thats coming from a big time program and playing a position that is easier to pick up than corner, at the pro level.
I liked the Bryant pick up but he too will be learning a new system. We will need Hobbs to have a break out year, but I'm not sure that this is realistic?
Better D line play will certainly help as will a more athletic (read younger) and fresher (read deeper rotation) LB corps. I know we can't have all pros at every position but I think, at least through October, we will be missing Assante.
It will be interesting as to how it plays out!
Respects,
Rich
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Meriweather got some time at CB during a number of their games. He started to show up more later in the season, especially when they gave him more time at Safety, which is his more comfortable position.
Some of my own opinions in relation to NE's CB situation.
1: Randall Gay was frequently injured during his stay in New England, and didn't play all that spectacularly in 2007. I did like him though, and he stepped up as a rookie in 2004.
2: Bryant has suffered a few injuries as well, but he's also a career starter, and doesn't give up many long receptions. I like having that type of CB on the team, since I did think Asante took a few bad chances last year, and in years past. The Patriots could see less INT's from the position in 2008 though.
3: Hobbs is a good CB, who's been a starter since midway through his rookie season. I'm not sure if he'll ever be a great CB, but I think he's solid, and plays through injuries that would sideline other CB's. I hope he resigns with NE when his contract is up.
4: Webster can be a good 3rd or 4th CB in NE's system, and they likely will not ask him to contribute on a higher level.
5: Wheatley has a lot of potential, and should start the season out as the Patriots third CB. If he plays well and stays injury free, then he could move himself into a rotation with Bryant and Hobbs as one of the starters.
6: It was during camp and the preseason, but Mike Richardson showed some flashes, and he could contribute in 2008.
7: With the additions NE's made, I believe they've actually improved depth and speed over their 2007 secondary.
Re: Some Concern at cornerback
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