New England Patriots 50 most important players and coaches in 2017

30. WR Danny Amendola

Danny Amendola wants to remain a Patriot forever. He continues to restructure his contract, which allows the team to bring in more and more talent. With the addition of Brandin Cooks and the breakout ability of Malcolm Mitchell, Amendola will be a bit further down the depth chart. Still, he will make plays when he’s called upon by Tom Brady.

29. LG Joe Thuney

Joe Thuney is a lot better than Ted Karras, so let’s hope he can stay on the field this season. Another year in the system should help Thuney improve going forward.

28. LB Rob Ninkovich

Rob Ninkovich has seen a drop in his playing time and his numbers over the past few seasons, but his veteran presence is critical. I’d like to see Nink finish the season with 5 sacks and 30 tackles. That should be labeled a success for him.

27. LB David Harris

The New York Jets are going to learn quickly that they made a mistake by releasing linebacker David Harris. He should step right into a starting role with New England. With the Jets last season, Harris had 62 tackles in 15 games.

26. DE Kony Ealy

Kony Ealy should be a starter on the edge, at least to begin the season. A change of scenery from Carolina could be just what he needs to turn his career around.