Yeah, if you think RB's comments after NFL Draft Day 1 are interesting, wait 'til we see his overall grade. That should be priceless, as the Pats confounded every prediction by the media. Most had this draft pegged for restocking the D. In reality, I believe only 3 of the 10 players taken were for the defense.
I find it interesting that anyone would question taking a TE, as the Pats have had injuries to all 3 TEs over the past couple seasons. In addition, this season will be particularly interesting with Mills in the mix. It gives the team flexibility to play Watson at a WR position in certain circumstances, as he's got the speed and height to use CBs. In addition with Thomas & Mills available, expect to see more formations using the H-back position with one or two TEs in the lineup. Also, expect to see him as a fullback in other situations. The beauty here is that with certain personnel and motion, they can really flex things up and further confuse the opposing D. Brady is going to love this!
So, what in h3ll is going to be done about the Pats' D? Given the remaining FA period and the room under the cap the team currently has, they should be able to fill the remaining gaps. Is the D really as bad as last year's ranking? Only if they continue to have injuries to key players. Do they still need to get younger on D? Yes, but they've just given themselves a huge injection of youth and speed on O! The philosophy is to take it when it's there, and today and yesterday, it was there!
