Patriots Linebackers Offer Versatility For Hybrid Looks In 2013

[PatsFans.com Article]

Patriots Linebackers Offer Versatility For Hybrid Looks In 2013
By: Steve Balestrieri

With the Patriots looking to play a more hybrid defense this season switching between 4-3 and 3-4 looks, it is imperative to have linebackers who can play seamlessly between different looks and positions...

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[NEPettyOfficer72]

We probably have more versatility at the Linebacker spot then any other LB corps in the league

Jerod Mayo - played outside and inside

Brandon Spikes - played outside and inside, and some defensive end in college

Don'ta Hightower - both outside, some inside in college and can play defensive end.. even played safety before in college

Jamie Collins - outside, defensive end and strong safety

Rob Ninkovich - outside and defensive end

Dane Fletcher - any linebacking position and played some defensive end in college

Steve Beaurahais - both inside and outside

Michael Buchanan, Jermaine Cunningham, Jake Bequette and Chandler Jones are all capable of playing at the Outside linebacker spot as well. And don't forget about safety Adrian Wilson.

 

[Oswlek]

Lots of LB versatility, yes, but the DL doesn't look suited for the 3-4 at all unless you think either:

a) Armstead and Kelly are locks to contribute and two more unknowns will emerge.
b) NE will switch to a SD 1-gapping style 3-4. Frankly, even more so because this one relies on Chandler Jones being a viable 3-4 end, which I have a really hard time seeing.

Of course, NE will probably use some 3 man line nickle and dime looks, but that isn't really the same thing.

Needless to say, I have a hard time seeing them in a base 3-4 regularly.

 

[Oswlek]

If you like investing 30 minutes in a player who may not even be on the team in two months....

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mVClFZzL5Ck