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I think it's misleading to say "BB has never counted on a rookie LB contributing," because you could just as well say "BB has started every rookie LB he ever drafted who made the opening day roster." In other words, he's never had a rookie LB to count on or not count on. Ever. Until this year, the only rookie LBs I can recall on BB Patriot rosters were 7th round/UDFA projects, typically converting from other positions. So there's a zero sample size to extrapolate from.
Looking at other positions, promising rookies have been day-1 starters (Koppen, Mankins, Wilson); platooned with veterans (Maroney, Wilfork, Warren); and eased their way into the mix (Meriweather)...or not (Jackson). I'm guessing that's pretty typical of most teams.
This year, the 1st and 2nd-round picks earned their way onto the first string by outplaying veterans. Crable is the #4 OLB. O'Connell is the emergency QB. Wilhite is the #4-5 CB. Slater is the likely KR, a position that routinely goes to the young, inexperienced guys with fast, fresh legs.
Does this really seem like huge reliance on rookies? I honestly don't see it. The number of rookies on this team is totally in keeping with the number in past strong Patriots seasons, including '03 and '04.
I think you make a great point.
We are going to start a rookie at ILB. We are going to have a rookie at corner who may start, may play nickel or dime, but probably will see quite a bit of action.
To some that means we are doomed.
But in fact, that is pretty typical of what we do every season.