New England Patriots 53-man roster outlook 2019: Mid-August predictions
By Matt Fiore
Defensive playmakers
Linebacker– Dont’a Hightower, Kyle Van Noy, Ja’Whaun Bentley, Jamie Collins, Brandon King, Elandon Roberts (6)
A slim core here comes because of how good this group could be. Plus the ability of Simon and Winovich to play a OLB/EDGE role.
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The biggest headline for this position now is the resurgence of Jamie Collins. After being a top 10 linebacker in his first stint here, he was shockingly traded to the Browns back in 2016. He never came close to being who he was in New England.
But with question marks, Jamie picked up right where he left off last week in Detroit. Oh, and don’t forget about Ja’Whaun Bentley, who could be a mainstay if fully healthy.
Cornerback- Stephon Gilmore, JC Jackson, Jason McCourty, Jonathan Jones, Joejuan Williams, Keion Crossen (6)
The arguable best player in Patriots camp has been JC Jackson. Last year’s undrafted free agent signee has made a tremendous leap to being near the top of the Patriots loaded secondary. He will serve as an elite CB2 for the New England Patriots.
Rookie Joejuan Williams bring size to the position, but is still a work in progress.