Chandler Jones - on his way to DROY last year if wasn't for the injury. Was on his way to double digit sacks and causes multiple turnovers. Even with double teams, still gave linemen headaches.. and now he has an entire off season to bulk up and improve his game even more. Could rise to elite status and break out this season. DE/OLB
Rob Ninkovich - Not flashy but quietly consistent, and according to many analyst who I've heard them say a star on defense even though his name is not heard a lot. He racked up 8 sacks, 4 forced fumbles and a key INT last season which is more then at least 85% of DE's in the NFL. And he is the clutch type of player that always makes the biggest plays at the biggest moments during the game. DE/OLB
Vince Wilfork - elite talent, top 5 defensive tackle and one of the all time greats. With Tommy Kelly coming in, he should have an even bigger impact being that he now has help both getting after the passer and keeping him fresh.
Tommy Kelly - former pro-bowler back in 2010, that is a good pass rusher and provides some experienced depth and backup for Wilfork. Can play the run and plays with very good technique still. Won't play every down so impact will be maximized.. DE/DT
Armond Armstead - CFL consistent contributor with the tools and talent to be a force for the Pats behind Wilfork and alongside him and Kelly. He is quick, has size and is disruptive and will from the best (Wilfork, Pepper Johnson, Tommy Kelly and Bill Belichick) Can play a lot of different looks, situations and techniques and gets after the passer. DE/DT
Marcus Forston - could be a sleeper, but from MIA and judging from school history he could be a gem (Wilfork, Ed Reed, Ray Lewis, Sean Taylor, etc) DT
Michael Buchanan - Very athletic, quick, fast and has good leverage and is a versatile hybrid type of player. Really strong, and explosive.. I heard he only fell in the draft because of character issues. We could line him up anywhere and if he is even half as productive as what Jones was last season then that would actually benefit so many others to allow them room to boom. DE/OLB
Justin Francis - I like his versatility playing both inside and outside and showed that he can get after the passer and certain passing downs and situations. I think he is good depth personally. DE/DT
Jermaine Cunningham - has lots of potential but never really panned out. He has been solid but not great, but he is good at being an inside rusher and his versatility is valuable. I'd say he is solid depth. DE/OLB
Jake Bequette - sky is the limit for this kid, could be a good year for him if sees more playing time. Another versatile one.
Everybody else I know about but not too much.. But even before them, we have at least two stars on the defensive line and at least 3 potential stars.. Definitely tons of talent, that's pretty much all versatile and faster and quicker then last years group, and speed is always a good thing.