The Patriots two major concerns this offseason are upgrading the pass rush on defense and getting better on offense. Getting better on offense to most people means finding that third receiver option for Brady after Moss and Welker (out for at least the majority of next season). What the Patriots really need is a 1,000 yard rusher, 10 touchdowns a season type of running back. A feature back and strong defense was the Patriot way of old that led to such great success. Since then we have been left with a stable of good, but not great running backs. With a dangerous running game the Patriots would be a force on offense particularly with Brady returning healthy and ready (after a full season). Brady doesn't need great receivers he just needs to be smart and great like he normally is. Moss is going to put up his annual 1,000 yard, ten touchdown effort, as Sam Aiken, (returning Patriot standout) David Patten, Ben Watson, and Julian Edelmen will catch the rest of Brady's passes (until Welker's return). The passing game is going to be fine, but combining that attack with a ground game and a better defense is crucial.
The Patriots need to acquire Thomas Jones from the free agent pool. Jones was recently let go from the New York Jets after posting 1,400 yards and 14 touchdowns this season. Since Corey Dillon the patriots have been searching for their feature back and have gone to a stable of backs instead. The group of versatile running backs on the team have been effective, but not dominant and that is what Thomas Jones would be. A physical, tough, strong, and determined half back; Jones would be perfect for the Patriots and they should seriously consider signing him.
Imagine teams trying to cover Randy Moss in the passing game and Thomas Jones in the running game; not to mention Kevin Faulk, Edelmen, and eventually Welker on screen passes. The discussion is not why Thomas Jones would be great, but what running backs in your stable do you let go? You can't keep Taylor, Maroney, Morris, Faulk, and Green-Ellis on your football team if your going to add a new RB. Figure it out somehow because this team needs Thomas Jones. Give Tom Brady a feature back and a good defense behind him and you've got a complete football team.
3 comments:
The Patriots are a little weak on team leadership players and could really use some defensive help. Hopefully our two key receivers will be back next year and we need to add one more key receiver (potentially or hopefully an intermediate or long distance threat). With Brady returning healthy, we should be OK and contending for a Super Bowl ring again next year.
Thanks for the comment and insight, can't wait to see what they do in the draft.
Yes what the Pats do, or once again don't do, in the draft may prove interesting. They don't often appear to go for really top prospect players, but they've had some sucess with getting some good well-rounded, team attitude athletes. They will need some positive additions from somewhere, free agents, trades, whatever. Your idea to pick-up Thomas Jones does appear to hold some positive promise. They also often trade draft spots, so let's watch & see what they come up with.
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