A couple of points
1. I find it interesting that everyone looks at the draft and makes suggestions on possible 3rd day picks who are described as tackling machines, with great instincts and character. My question is, doesn't that perfectly describe someone we already have on the roster, SBeuaharnais?
I'm not saying we shouldn't be adding LB's or look to draft one. But it could be that one of the reasons the Pats let Fletcher go is because they think they already have his replacement already on board. The fact is that where we need the most help at LB is on the outside. That's why Jones or Tripp would be great pick ups in the 3rd or 4th rounds
2. 4-3 DE is the big need - No one excites me that much to make a pick at 29 at that position. Ford will be the big name there, but I don't think a short armed, one move guy, whose only asset is an explosive first step is likely to be an impact player worthy of a pick a 29. I'd rather look in later rounds for great physical specimens who played in small schools (Fede is a name that gets a lot of mention, but there are others) The thing is that you can't teach length and explosion.
As for what's left in FA, I'm content to wait and see what's there in June and July. I'm sure BB will add a vet or two by then. Also by then we'll have at least a hint about where Buchanon and Bequette are in the great scheme of things
3. Tuitt is starting to take shape as a real option at DT/DE at 29, now that it looks like Donald and Hageman will be long gone by the time we pick. He's right in the mode of a Ty Warren type 3-4 DE, who might have a little more quickness like he showed in 2012 with some less weight. Remember BB is a 3-4 guy by nature. Roster talent has dictated our recent move to a 4-3. Tuitt's ideal position is a 3-4 DE. In a 4-3 he could be a DE on run downs and move down to DT in passing situations That kind of position flexibility adds to his potential value, especially for a defense that wants to run multiple fronts
4. DT has just so many question marks at this time. Questions that can't be answered until Armstead, Wilfolk and Kelly get back on the field. If they can be even close to the effectiveness we all hope they have, we could be in a lot better shape at DT than it looked like when the season ended.\
5. Chris Jones has a severe case of Ninko disease. Yes he's THAT under rated. We would all be THRILLED (me included) if we drafted a DT who could push the pocket and get 5 or 6 sacks. And even though that's exactly what Chris Jones did all last season, he routinely seems to be dismissed as an end of the roster backup hopeful.
I also don't understand the reason why we all expect Collins, Ryan, Buchanon, Harmon, Dobson, Thompkins, and Boyce all to make significant 2nd year jumps; yet for some reason, we all think Chris Jones has hit his ceiling? Sure he doesn't fit the image we all have of our ideal DT, but the kid did have 54 tackles and 6 sacks. What other rookie DT did better than that! Just sayin'
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