Most years there are no ILBs that have size, and run in the 4.5 Those that do, either don't have a LBs mentality, or are top 15 picks, that the Pats can't get.
This year there are a couple that might be available.
AZ, you want to draft a LB because there are some who have size, speed, and may be available when we pick? Maybe BB would like to also, but obviously he has other positions to address as well. And maybe the CB or Safety that's available to him at #24 or #28 is rated higher than that LB with the size/speed.
In addition, maybe BB feels an upgrade is needed at the Safety position because A) Harrison will hang em' up real soon B) Wilson's play of late is unacceptable
So maybe we take a chance on one of those SS prospects later on knowing that prospect will have time to develop under Rodney for this season, but perhaps the playmaking Nelson in round one is too good to pass on, even though there are other FS options later on.
Also, there's the Samuel situation to consider. Maybe a Revis slides to #24 because Hall and Houston go early. Does BB pass on someone who could potentially replace Samuel? Obviously, we could wait till later for a CB, but are the CB options few or plenty? Just because our top 3 roster CBs were 3rd, 4th, and undrafted, doesn't mean we won't draft a CB in round one -- providing he fits.
It makes no sense. None at all...
It makes a great deal of sense if we accept the fact that BB has the entire roster to consider. From player peformance evaluations and contract negotiations to potential retirements, a great deal of foresight is needed if he wants to maintain a championship calibre TEAM. There may appear to be a need at LB, but by the time '08 comes around, we'll wished we addressed SS, FS, and CB as well -- unless we do so now.