It's nothing that hasn't been written here for the past several weeks as this defense has formed with all its upgrades over last year's very good edition.
Flowers was a big loss and I'm not sure Bennett completely replaces that. However, the secondary is now the deepest I can ever remember with 5 veteran cerebral guys who know the system and could be coaches right now, yet are at the top of their game. Mix in newcomers like Brooks and JoJuan.
The LBs/DE's????? Damn. These may be the best BB has had since the 80's Giants. OK, we already know what we have with Hightower, Van Noy, Roberts, Simon. But I am going to particularly watch Bentley. This kid could be a household name by the end of the year. Throw in Winovich (wouldn't it be funny if the highly touted Devin Bush is overshadowed by Mr. Shorn Locks this Sunday night?). Jamie Collins???? A Jamie Collins who now actually knows how to "Do His Job"???????? OK, this is now the football version of a Turducken.......
The DL looks good, not great. That's the only area that doesn't seem superlative going in (full disclosure: Yes, this is all from preseason viewpoint and preseason results do not guarantee future performance...yaddda yadda).
I know the original plan was for Schiano to be the DC and BB was thrown into it due to circumstances. But he must be salivating at this chance to dive in with this unit. The deepest, most Lamborghini unit he's had since the LT days.
Whatever possible early season stumbling we might understandably see on the offense (I'm particularly concerned about Center), should be more than offset by this defense. I'm excited for the Patriots to roll this baby out of the garage. .......now, of course, watch the Steelers hang a 30 burger on them