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CLICK HERE to Register for a free account and login for a smoother ad-free experience. It's easy, and only takes a few moments.Who is Brace going to take playing time away from if he does play?
This kid will be fine.
If memory serves properly, Wilfork took most of his rookie year to develop. The Pats aren't asking him to simply rush up field or tie up blockers like many defenses ask their d-linemen. They need to read and react, and I think Brace will eventually be a real solid player for the NEP.
By mid-season, Vince started to get about 15-20 snaps a game.
I really think the addition of Floyd Reese was HUGE for this team. His contributions to the overall drafting process will pay large dividends over the long haul. I hope he stays around long enough to build a full roster. By the time the TB era ends (wow, hard to type that), it could ease the transition.
I really think the addition of Floyd Reese was HUGE for this team. His contributions to the overall drafting process will pay large dividends over the long haul. I hope he stays around long enough to build a full roster. By the time the TB era ends (wow, hard to type that), it could ease the transition.
The bottom line is that Brace is a 2nd rounder at position backing up an all-pro. He is indeed taking a lot of time to develop (Belichick preferred a street free agent for a couple of weeks when Wilfork was injured). He simply didn't project as high level as Wilfork, Warren or Meriweather who were all solid Round One talents.
None of the NT's taken have been much of a factor so far, and that includes a player that some wanted us to trade up into the top 10 to secure. Brace was signed as injurance against us not being able to re-sign Wilfork, and as some leverage in those negotaitions. My hope is that Brace is never a huge factor for the patriots; bet instead, Wilfork is re-signed for a long-term contract.
I was surprised that we signed Brace, a one-trick pony. He is a very, very slow run-stuffer. However, I do understand the need for Wilfork insurance. I expected a 4th rounder for that role. Unfortunately for Brace, we have Wilfork to compare him to. Wilfork can play DE!
If/when VW (he's about the size of one. . . . ) re-signs, I could see Brace potentially being traded.
And what do you think the value is of a mid second rounder who hasn't played one sigfnificant down even when three defensive linemen are injured?
Even when Wilfork is re-signed, we need a backup NT. And we've already paid his signing bonus and first year salary. We shouldn't give him away.
And what do you think the value is of a mid second rounder who hasn't played one sigfnificant down even when three defensive linemen are injured?
Even when Wilfork is re-signed, we need a backup NT. And we've already paid his signing bonus and first year salary. We shouldn't give him away.