We could draft 2-3 DL's in the 1st 100 picks

[patchick]

You don't think that the situation is severe even in 2010? Without additions our 2010 line would be
Smith RFA
Wilfork Fanchisee
Warren
???
???
???
I think that there is an issue of concern, given the weakness of the draft at 3-4 DE, and the perception that it takes a year for all but a Top 10 player to learn to Belichick's 3-4 defense.

Clearly the situation would be severe in the extremely unlikely event that we don't sign or draft anyone. BUT...you've been framing the call for drafting 2-3 DL's in the 1st 100 picks as a pure matter of need, and I don't think it's that simple. After all, the Pats are also scheduled to lose all four OGs, 2 out of 3 proven OLBs, both significant TEs, etc., plus safety is depleted already. And DL isn't the only position that has historically taken time to learn. (Seen any hotshot rookie WRs on this team lately?) So perhaps what this really is is part statement of need, part statement of team-building priorities?

 

[mgteich]

The needs are there. It is a matter of choosing how to solve the needs. I don't think we can just assume that everyone will be extended. I do think it reasonable to presume that Wilfork will be extended or franchised, and that eithe Seymour or Green will be extended.

I think that we have to fill what we can in free agency. For example, I don't think it is difficult to find players in free agency to fill holes at deep snapper, punter, fullback, backup an backup guard. We also have no problem finding defensive backfield folks every year.

Let's address your stated needs/

OLB
We are not losing Mayo or Thomas. Vrabel will almost assuredly be extended into 2009. Crable are expected to be part of the future, and perhaps Redd or Robertson will be too. Woods is an RFA and can be kept this year. There is no dire need, but I would like to add a linebacker. This is a WANT, not a need.

ILB (not mentioned by you)
This is more of a NEED with Bruschi expected to retire after this season, and have a reduced number of reps this year.

TE
Free agent backups and are a dime a dozen. Three backups could easily met the need. We've signed several off the street, even dutring the season.

OG
I do believe that we need to draft an OG. HOWEVER, there is a lot to be said for waiting. We have started rookies, free agents and street guards with success.

WR
Hotshot rookies? You make my point. The draft is NOT the place for the patriots to find a wide receiver or two. Trades or free agency are the way to go.

BOTTOM LINE
The hardest positions for the patriots to fill in free agency or with street free agents are corners and defensive ends. Do you disagree? The quaility of the linebackers will likely suggest drafting a linebacker early.

Clearly the situation would be severe in the extremely unlikely event that we don't sign or draft anyone. BUT...you've been framing the call for drafting 2-3 DL's in the 1st 100 picks as a pure matter of need, and I don't think it's that simple. After all, the Pats are also scheduled to lose all four OGs, 2 out of 3 proven OLBs, both significant TEs, etc., plus safety is depleted already. And DL isn't the only position that has historically taken time to learn. (Seen any hotshot rookie WRs on this team lately?) So perhaps what this really is is part statement of need, part statement of team-building priorities?

 

[Box_O_Rocks]

01/16/09 - EAST-WEST SHRINE STANDOUT: DE/DT Jarron Gilbert, San Jose State: It's fair to say Gilbert was the most impressive athlete on the field this week. His measurements were ridiculous (6-5, 287 pounds, 35 5/8-inch arms, 10 1/4-inch hands), but on the field he looked really fluid and played strong. He's not going to be a run-stuffer inside, but his length and size could be a great fit for 3-4 teams looking for a starting defensive end in the third round - like 2008 East-West participant and current Miami Dolphin Kendall Langford. - Chad Reuter, The SportsXchange, NFLDraftScout

01/16/09 - EAST-WEST SHRINE STANDOUT: DT Terrence Taylor, Michigan: Like Mitchell, Taylor flashed at times. But overall he was slow to get off blocks from solid, but not dominating, East centers. The defensive line coaches were constantly getting on Taylor to get past his man into the backfield. Occasionally he would use his strength to fill a gap, but most times he was stuck to his block like Velcro. - Chad Reuter, The SportsXchange, NFLDraftScout

 

[Ochmed Jones]

Regardless of whether we resign Wright, we have a gaping hole at backup NT.

If we do not resign Wright, we need a DE. Smith is nothing more than a backup at best.

If BB is prepared to let Seymour walk, he should think about drafting a DE like Jackson of LSU and giving him a year in the system to learn.

Unfortunately, I do not see a decent 3-4 NT in this draft, unless Mount Cody secretly declared.