4 New England Patriots defensive players who will wreak havoc in 2022

Oct 24, 2021; Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA; New England Patriots linebacker Josh Uche (55) reacts after recovering a fumble against the New York Jets during the second half at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Fluharty-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 24, 2021; Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA; New England Patriots linebacker Josh Uche (55) reacts after recovering a fumble against the New York Jets during the second half at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Fluharty-USA TODAY Sports /
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How will the New England Patriots defense look in 2022?  With Bill Belichick depending on some younger players to stir things up on that side of the football this upcoming season, there could be some growing pains, but there is also optimism that this unit may be better than we think.

This is the greatest defensive mind in the NFL we are talking about.  While that could be put up to debate the last few seasons, Belichick still finds a way to get the best out of players to accept their role and commit to the system.

In embracing a youth movement on that side of the football, the Patriots are looking to get faster, more physical, and more versatile.  Looking at the final 53-man roster, it looks like that is exactly what Belichick has done.

New England Patriots have a nice mix of veteran leadership and hungry young players

With key veterans like Devin McCourty, Adrian Phillips, Matthew Judon and Lawrence Guy anchoring the ship as far as experience and leadership, this should be an interesting year on the defensive side of the ball.  Will Belichick master this group into one of the top defenses in the NFL in 2022?

There are no players outside of Judon who strike fear into opposing offenses heading into this season, but the New England Patriots have some players who could and should be on the brink of dominance.  Though Belichick will be relying on a cast of young players and newcomers to simply do their job, the Patriots need a few players to step their game up to elite status.

In looking at the final roster, here are three defensive players who could wreak havoc in 2022 and elevate the New England Patriots defense into one of the best in the league.