Which kind of ILB do we need to draft?

[Poll]

A run stuffer or a coverage player?

 

[Canada's #1 Pats Fan]

we need a RUN STUFFER!

 

[Fencer]

We could use both, actually, but run stuffers are easier to get as vet FAs.

 

[BelichickFan]

Both, the run defense was just OK after Seau got hurt and the pass defense from LB - go back and watch the AFCC game. Although I'm in the minority, I think our base defense will have Vrabel and Colvin starting outside with Bruschi in the role he's played as the strong side run stopping ILB and Thomas starting at the other ILB in Bruschi's old coverage, big play spot. We'll see.

 

[PonyExpress]

The Pats need a 3 down Lber versatile enough to do both by Year 2.

 

[PATSNUTme]

A ILB named Patrick Willis if we can get him.

 

[pats63]

A ILB named Patrick Willis if we can get him.

I hear ya,isn't he on the rise

 

[sebman2112]

We still need an ILB who can cover, but ILB's of the run stuffing ilk are a more pressing need. The signing of AD who is very good in coverage, and can play both inside and outside has effected this.

An ILB who can both stuff the run, and cover well would be ideal, especially with a high round pick.

 

[Box_O_Rocks]

Obviously we need both in a player, the question I'm mulling is which player fits my Pats "profile" and can more easily develop his weaker run or coverage skill set?

 

[WhiZa]

With our DLine I'd rather have a better coverage player

 

[Water Boy]

A run stuffer or a coverage player?

Yes. 10 characters.

 

[everlong]

If we are talking about a high draft pick both but in the middle rounds perhaps the Pats would do well to take an undersized LB for their scheme who can cover. It's certainly a need and that type of player would be valuable on special teams too.

 

[AzPatsFan]

A run stuffer or a coverage player?

A future starter.

 

[mgteich]

The man has bingo!

Seriously, we will get a couple others in free agency. With Hartwell (to replace Mays) and Gardner (to compete with Alexander), we will be able to draft whoever projects to be a starter in our system.

A future starter.

 

[Urgent]

A run stuffer.

The Pats have coverage capabilities with Bruschi, Vrabel, and potentially Alexander. Alexander has said that the team is focusing on his coverage capabilities, in essence grooming him for the Roman Phifer role.

There has been no replacement for the Ted Johnson role. Bruschi can't do it, Vrabel can't do it, Seau can't do it, Alexander can't do it.

Obviously versatility is critical in this defense, and you can argue both. The Pats need a linebacker who can take on guards, who can tackle well, who can drop into coverage on tight ends, and who can rush the passer. But, to answer the question, the primary need is run stopping.