Reiss' Starting Lineup Prediction
 

... Reiss himself doesn't make this clarification but I think it's important to note that this all falls into the category of "if the season started today"...

I haven't thought - and looking at this roster REALLY don't think - that the team is done making moves yet... I expect there will be more pickups of cut players and/or trades

That being said, I can see a few weak links in the chain - though also believe that some of the lesser players can step up and play their roles well.

New England Patriots mailbag: Laying a foundation through the NFL draft - ESPN Boston

On offense, I'd like to see some more depth and competition there. Although we don't know what Tate might do, a competition between he and Hold doesn't fill one with confidence. I am however, confident that Edelman can be a Welker-Lite.

That being said, I'd have to think Hernandez might be added to the mix as an additional TE on the field - which could make things interesting.

Aside from that I'll be rooting for some UDFA RBs but unlike most, I think our RBs are ok seeing as I expect the pass to set up the run and not the other way around.

On Defense I see few areas of concern. I like a lot of what I've seen from Ninkovich - I'm just not sure I've seen enough to write him in as the starting OLB. I like TBC too but when he's your best OLB I think you can upgrade the position.

Mike Wright and Gerard Warren as potential starters at RDE? Again, why doesn't that fill me with confidence?

I actually do agree with Spikes at ILB - I think they got a steal with him. But still, to have him penciled in at this stage indicates that's not a position of strength on the team.

Bodden, Butler, and Chung too - all have some great potential - whether they'll consistently deliver is another question.

I actually wouldn't be all that surprised to see McCourty make a challenge. He has the skills and was a "reach" because of the lack of INTs - but I think Belichick values his ability to hit/tackle - and appreciates his willingness to play a role in a zone, rather than freelance for stats. He could be the anti-Ty Law - but in a good way.

So still room - and still time - for some improved depth and competition by my view.

Re: Reiss' Starting Lineup Prediction
 

Hernandez is, in effect, a competitor for one of the WR slots.

Why is G. Warren ranked over D. Lewis?

What possible move could secure an ILB starter better than the guys now on the roster, at least one who would make any sense to acquire given the resources invested in the position?

Agree re McCourty.

Lots of competition for Ninkovich's spot.

Re: Reiss' Starting Lineup Prediction
 

I dont think Spikes will be ahead of Guyton day 1. I also dont think we'll be running a 3-4 day 1 either.

Re: Reiss' Starting Lineup Prediction
 

Not a lot of change from last year's season ending crew. Hopefully, the coaching will be better and the team execution will be better.

Re: Reiss' Starting Lineup Prediction
 

everything looks right except chung...i dont see him as being able to start at beginning of season

sanders is the starter paired with meriweather there

Re: Reiss' Starting Lineup Prediction
 

I really am tired of watching Maroney dance.

The kid has talent, but no football insticts.

Please Bill... go get a RB....

I prefer Taylor & Morris to Maroney, but you know both of those guys
will get hurt at some point.

I will be rooting for Pat Pachall in the preseason.

Anybody but Maroney.

Re: Reiss' Starting Lineup Prediction
 

Why? and Why? Guyton isnt very good, has trouble against the run and shedding blockers. I think he will be the 3rd ILB this year. Spikes is a great player with outstanding football instincts to make up for his lack of speed. I definitely see him in the middle next to Mayo. And BB would never switch to a 4-3 with this team. What makes you think we're switching to a 4-3, when he passed on Odrick, twice in the draft

Re: Reiss' Starting Lineup Prediction
 

BJGE is my guy.

Re: Reiss' Starting Lineup Prediction
 

our OLB's SUUUUUUCK

Re: Reiss' Starting Lineup Prediction
 

thanks for pointing that out. Up till now, i wasnt sure how you felt about this subject :rolleyes: