With the dust settling on the 2012 NFL Draft, we decided to dig up some information on the newest members of the Patriots.  We took some time to get to know Chandler Jones by speaking with Jared Smith of CNYSportsfan.com.  Jared covered Syracuse football this past season and was able to bring some unique insights into the Patriots' top pick.  Here is our Q&A session with him below:

1. The big rise on the draft boards was Chandler Jones? Do you think he is a perceived "workout warrior"? If not, what about him made him rise up to a late first round pick this week?

A: I don't know officially if Jones is a so-called "workout warrior", but I am very certain one of the reasons why he flew up NFL draft boards was because of his off-the-field character. Jones is a stand-up guy who is related to two brothers -- Arthur and Jon -- who're successful professionally.

I am sure the Patriots saw his physically tools and his ability to get the passer, and said, "with the right attitude and coaching we can make this guy a star."

2. Mike Greenberg on ESPN Radio today said that Jones is a Lawrence Taylor type of player? Do you agree with this assessment? If not, which NFL player do you think he best resembles?

As much as I hope the best for Chandler, the comparisons to Lawrence Taylor are just ridiculous. In all honesty, I believe Jones was a reach in the first round and would have been better suited as a second- to third-round project player.

I am just not buying that Jones is going to make an impact during the 2012-13 season, as his production at Syracuse University (14.5 sacks in 39 collegiate games) just doesn't show a guy ready to make that type of impact yet.

With that said, I think Jones can be a good player, maybe a Pro-Bowler at some points, but I am not at all buying a future All-Pro or Hall-Of-Famer. But if you ask any Syracuse fan, "Do you think he's better than former Syracuse pass-rusher Dwight Freeney (who went No. 11 overall in 2002)?" Almost 90-percent of them would say, no.

I think maybe the better comparison is maybe Simeon Rice, who was a pass-rushing sensation for the Arizona Cardinals and Tampa Bay Buccaneers for a few years. However, at this point, even that is a bit of a stretch just because his numbers in college don't show a consistent double-digit passer.

3. How can he fit in to the Patriot system on a team that had to add pass rushers?

Jones has a knack for finding the quarterback and he's versatile -- so, he can play in both the 4-3 as a pass-rushing end or in the 3-4 as a pass-rushing linebacker. And, Patriots fans know how the Patriot system likes to adjust on the fly or do whatever it takes to win a game. Jones is that type of player. If you tell him to do something he'll do it and he'll do it well.

4. What are some weaknesses to Jones' game?

A few things pop into my mind about Jones, and this is probably why I don't see him as an immediate-impact player but understand why he went in the first round.

First, he doesn't have that huge speed-power combination that many very successful NFL pass-rushers do (i.e. Dwight Freeney). Which is why I think it will take a bit for him to develop.

Eventually, I think Jones can get there, as he has the right coaches in place to build up the strength and teach him how to increase his potential. 

My other worry about Jones is health, as he played in just seven games in 2010 and '11. He progression as a player probably was hurt by that and if he can't stay healthy in the NFL, so will his professional progression.

5. In the end, what do you think Jones' career will project out to be?

As a media guy who covered Jones, I wish him well. However, if I am betting large sums of money on my projection of Jones as a NFLers, I say he doesn't work out as well as people think.

I think Jones can be a solid rotational DE who can rush the passers, but as a all-around, impact first-rounder I just don't see it.

One of the game's best linebackers and one of its biggest personalities passed away on Wednesday. Junior Seau, a 12-time Pro Bowler who starred with the San Diego Chargers before finishing his career with the Miami Dolphins and Patriots, was found dead in his California home by what appears to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound. 

Seau was a relentless player during his near two-decade career. The 6-foot-3, 248-pounder starred at USC, donning the now famous #55 which has since been worn by Willie McGinest, Lofa Tatupu and Rey Maualuga. After garnering All-American honors, Seau was selected fifth overall in the 1990 draft by the Chargers and earned 10 All-Pro selections. 

Following the 2002 season, Seau was traded to the Dolphins where he struggled to stay on the field due to injuries. After a brief retirement, the feisty linebacker joined the Patriots in 2006, recording 69 tackles that season. He was part of the historic 2007 team that came up one game short of a perfect season. During his time in New England, he was known as a great teammate, leader and active member in the community. 

Seau leaves behind three children. We at Foxboro Blog send our condolences to his family as they go through this tough time. We thank Junior for his terrific time in Foxboro and will never forget his Hall of Fame career and contributions off the field. RIP Junior. 

Players aren’t due to report to training camp for another three months, but don’t expect that to stop fans, analysts and fanalysts from projecting how this year’s draft and free agent signings will impact the team’s abysmal defense in 2012. The Patriots like to mix and match between the 3-4, 4-3 and various sub packages, and some of the fresh faces in camp will offer a wealth of scheme diversity that fits well with the team’s philosophy.  Here’s a quick look at how Coach Belichick might use some of his new toys.

Defensive Linemen

Wilfork will continue to anchor the middle, but he could see plenty of new faces around him in 2012. The Patriots added veteran lineman Jonathon Fanene in free agency, and he should be a strong pass-rushing presence as a DE in 3-4 packages. He could also see some time inside at DT when the Pats switch to the 4-3, though Brandon Deaderick, Kyle Love or Ron Brace could also push for playing time. All three of those players will be competing with 1^st round pick Chandler Jones for the other starting DE spot opposite Fanene, but the Pats would probably prefer to match Jones up against opposing tackles as an OLB to make use of his speed and wingspan off the edge when they go to a three-man front.

When the Patriots go to a four-man front, Jones should be locked into a starting DE spot. Fellow rookie Jake Bequette could challenge for the other spot due to his prototypical size and skill set for the position, but he’ll have an uphill battle for the position given the number of other options that are available. He seems like a guy who needs a year or two of seasoning, but could definitely benefit from some playing time when they can squeeze him in.

Linebackers

Rookies Jones, Dont’a Hightower and Bequette will add a ton of depth to a unit that desperately needs it. Jerod Mayo and Brandon Spikes anchor the defense in the middle, and Rob Ninkovich provided a competent presence at one OLB spot. Beyond those three, 2011 was a mishmash of mediocrity. Jones should see plenty of time with his hand on the ground up front, but he could also provide the outside pass-rushing threat New England needs as an OLB in 3-4 fronts. Hightower should be able to fit in as a strong side OLB in 4-3 fronts, and he could contribute as an ILB along with Spikes in the 3-4, giving the Patriots the ability to take advantage of Mayo’s athleticism as an OLB in coverage in some packages, particularly against teams that feature athletic pass-catching tight ends. Hightower may lack the speed and range to play WLB in a 4-3 front, but he might be able to help set the edge in run support as a 3-4 OLB in certain packages. Bequette is probably best used as a situational pass-rusher. He has the athletic ability to drop into coverage, but getting after the quarterback will be his best way to earn playing time in 2012.

Defensive Backfield

At this point, the corners and safeties make up the murkiest unit on the team. While there was some talk of moving CB McCourty to FS after he played that position in the playoffs, his future is almost certainly at corner (if only because New England doesn’t really appear to have any other surefire starting corners). The only way he ends up at FS is in the unlikely event that several of the team’s CB prospects make a huge impact in camp and the preseason and injuries force Belichick’s hand. CB Sterling Moore filled in admirably as a starter during the stretch run and the playoffs, and the Patriots could do worse than starting him alongside McCourty. Kyle Arrington should continue to play a role as a nickel corner, and a healthy return of 2011 2^nd rounder Ras-I Dowling could provide a boost to the secondary. Don’t be surprised if Dowling challenges for a starting spot. 7^th round pick Alfonso Dennard had a second-round grade prior to his arrest. If he can avoid punching any additional cops, he could earn plenty of playing time. If three quality players emerge from this group of five varying degrees of question marks, the Patriots’ pass defense will undoubtedly improve on last year’s dismal performance.

Pat Chung’s name is already written on the depth chart in permanent marker at one safety position, most likely at SS. The FS position was a gaping chest wound in 2011, but free agent acquisition Steve Gregory should help shore up the position. Surprise 2^nd round pick Tavon Wilson is probably viewed more an insurance on Chung bolting for greener pastures next year, but he could earn some playing time in sub packages (though the less he’s on the field as a rookie, the better).

Conclusion

The two keys to improving the defense this offseason were improving the pass rush and shoring up the secondary. Adding starter-quality players in Gregory and Fanene and potential star power with Chandler Jones and Dont’a Hightower should go a long way toward accomplishing both of those goals.

The defense was ravaged by injuries last year, but the 2012 team appears to have solid depth across the board. I think it’s fair to expect this unit to take a huge step forward in 2012, very possibly into the top 10 in overall defense.

After three painfully long days of rumors, trades and picks, the 2012 NFL Draft is in the books. For Patriots fans, it was a characteristically unpredictable experience, beginning with the unthinkable – trading up for two players in the first round, and ending with the usual – taking some obscure players. Let’s take a look at the seven-member draft class.

1. Chandler Jones, DE/OLB, Syracuse (1^st round, 21^st overall): During my interview with ESPN/Scouts Inc.’s Matt Williamson early last week, he brought up Jones as a guy the Patriots would really be interested in. Turns out Williamson was spot on, as Belichick executed a trade up from pick 27 to 21 to select the 6-foot-5, 266-pounder. The lengthy defensive end has drawn comparisons to Jason Pierre-Paul for his raw athleticism, although I’d argue he isn’t as explosive or quick as the Giants Pro Bowler. However, Jones’ game tape reveals incredible upside because of his hand usage, shedding ability and pass-rush ability. The younger brother of Ravens defensive tackle Arthur Jones and UFC star Jon “Bones” Jones will be groomed at the elephant position and can also play defensive end in 4-3 schemes.

2. Dont’a Hightower, LB, Alabama (1^st round, 25^th overall): Watch Hightower’s tape against Tennessee from last season and you’ll quickly realize how his versatility should make an instant impact on the league’s 31^st-ranked defense. The 6-foot-2, 265-pounder was the leader of the nation’s best defense, registering 80 tackles, including 11 for loss, four sacks, an interception and a forced fumble. Despite being listed as an inside linebacker, Hightower is far more than a thumper in the middle. He has experience lining up as a 3-4 outside linebacker and a pass-rushing defensive end on third down. His ability to line up all over the defense and perhaps spell Brandon Spikes on passing downs makes him an excellent fit in the Patriots system.

3. Tavon Wilson, DB, Illinois (2^nd round, 48^th overall): With plenty of better known defensive backs on the board, the Patriots made one of the biggest head scratchers of the draft by taking Wilson in the middle of the second round. The former safety/corner was projected to go in the late rounds before New England made him the third safety off the board. The 6-foot, 205-pounder brings solid athleticism (4.52 forty) and versatility and experience. It’ll be interesting to see if he outplays the projections, and his selection will be one that could go a long way in cementing Bill Belichick’s legacy of drafting defensive backs.

4. Jake Bequette, DE/OLB, Arkansas (3^rd round, 90^th overall): Measuring in at 6-foot-5, 274 pounds, this former Razorback certainly has the requisite size to be a pass-rushing force in the Patriots defense. Although he was projected to go in the fifth round, I think he’s a solid fit because he can line up as an outside linebacker and defensive end. Bequette was a two-time captain at Arkansas and is highly regarded for both his pass-rushing skills and his motor. Whenever a player records 23.5 sacks in the SEC, that’s no easy feat.

5. Nate Ebner, S, Ohio State (6^th round, 197^th overall): Every year, the Pats seem to make a pick soley for special teams value. By selecting the former rugby player turned walk-on, New England added a special athlete who brings toughness, physicality and upside. Ebner was a standout rugby player, and as a rugby player myself, I can tell you those skills will certainly benefit his football career. It seems Mike Vrabel’s influence played a big part in selecting Ebner, a player whose best football might be ahead of him.

6. Alfonzo Dennard, CB, Nebraska (7^th round, 224^th overall): Prior to the 2011 season, the former Cornhusker was considered a possible first-round pick. Even after a down year, he still was a second- or third-rounder. However, after a poor Senior Bowl and a late April arrest, Dennard slipped all the way to the draft’s final round. This is a terrific value pick by Belichick and for me, makes up for the huge reach in the second round. Dennard is highly regarded for his physical press-man abilities, although there are questions about his fit as a corner because of his lack of deep speed. If he works hard, he could eventually emerge as one of the top corners on the roster.

7. Jeremy Ebert, WR, Northwestern (7^th round, 235^th overall): With Wes Welker’s status in limbo, the Patriots selected another similar player to he and Julian Edelman. The 5-foot-11, 200-pounder has tremendous speed, running between 4.38-4.44 at his pro day. The former high school quarterback was a versatile weapon in college, finishing his senior year with 75 catches, 1,060 yards and 11 touchdowns. While he doesn’t have the elite agility like Welker, he stands a good shot at becoming a slot receiver who could possibly be a returner.

Just when everyone expected the Patriots to move down in the first round, think again. 

Bill Belichick took advantage of some sliding prospects and moved up twice to secure two building blocks for one of the league's worst defenses. 

The Patriots traded the 27th pick and their 2012 third-rounder to the Bengals for pick 21 and selected Syracuse defensive end Chandler Jones. The 6-foot-5, 265-pounder was highly regarded by draft analysts for his length, strength and growth potential. In fact, NFL Network draft guru Mike Mayock projected Jones to be the best defender from this year's draft. 

After the Steelers scooped up Stanford guard David DeCastro at 24, Belichick once again manuevered his way up the board, sending the 31st pick and their fourth rounder to Denver for the 25th selection. With that pick, the Patriots added a stud in Alabama linebacker Dont'a Hightower. The leader of the nation's premier defense has the ability to line up as a 3-4 ILB, 3-4 OLB, 4-3 SLB or a pass rushing defensive end. His versatility, pedigree and size/speed package will be a terrific fit in New England. 

1. Colts – Andrew Luck – QB, Stanford

2. Redskins – Robert Griffin III – QB, Baylor

3. Vikings – Matt Kalil – OT, USC

4. Browns – Trent Richardson – RB, Alabama

5. Buccaneers – Morris Claiborne – CB, LSU

6. Rams – Fletcher Cox – DT, Mississippi State

7. Jaguars – Justin Blackmon – WR, Oklahoma State

8. Dolphins – Ryan Tannehill – QB, Texas A&M

9. Panthers – Luke Kuechly – ILB, Boston College

10. Bills – Michael Floyd – WR, Notre Dame

11. Chiefs – David DeCastro – G, Stanford

12. Seahawks – Quinton Coples – DE, North Carolina

13. Arizona Cardinals – Riley Reiff – T, Iowa

14. Dallas Cowboys – Mark Barron – SS, Alabama

15. Philadelphia Eagles – Michael Brockers – DT, LSU

16. New York Jets – Melvin Ingram – DE, South Carolina

17. Cincinnati Bengals – Stephon Gilmore – CB, South Carolina

18. San Diego Chargers – Cordy Glenn – T, Clemson

19. Chicago Bears – Whitney Mercilus – DE, Illinois

20. Tennessee Titans – Dontari Poe – DT, Memphis

21. Cincinnati Bengals – Courtney Upsaw – OLB, Alabama

22. Cleveland Browns – Stephen Hill – WR, Georgia Tech

23. Detroit Lions – Jonathan Martin – G, Stanford

24. Pittsburgh Steelers – Donta Hightower – ILB, Alabama

25. Denver Broncos – Jerel Worthy – DT, Michigan State

26. Houston Texans – Kendall Wright – WR, Baylor

27. New England Patriots – Devon Still – DT, Penn State

28. Green Bay Packers – Shea McLlellan – OLB, Boise State

29. Baltimore Ravens – Peter Konz – C, Wisconsin

30. San Francisco 49ers – Amini Silatolu – G, Midwestern State

31. New England Patriots – Nick Perry – OLB, USC

32. New York Giants – Coby Fleener – TE, Stanford

1. Indianapolis Colts: Andrew Luck, QB, Stanford

New face of the franchise.

2. Washington Redskins: Robert Griffin III, QB, Baylor

They traded three first-round picks and a second rounder to move up four spots. Shanahan gets his man.

3. Minnesota Vikings: Matt Kalil, OT, USC

The Vikings took Christian Ponder, an injury-prone quarterback, in round one last year. Kalil can step in from day one and keep him upright and will be a future All-Pro.

4. Cleveland Browns: Trent Richardson, RB, Alabama

Peyton Hillis left town for KC. Richardson is the best running back prospect since Adrian Peterson.

5. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Morris Claiborne, CB, LSU

Blessed with height, length and elite ball skills, Claiborne helps shore up a young secondary.

6. St. Louis Rams: Justin Blackmon, WR, Oklahoma State

They got a major haul for the No. 2 pick and still get their top target with the sixth pick.

7. Jacksonville Jaguars: Fletcher Cox, DT, Mississippi State

Gene Smith goes for high-character guys, and Cox is potentially the best defensive player in this draft.

8. Miami Dolphins: Ryan Tannehill, QB, Texas A&M

They might have to move up a few spots, but the Dolphins can’t afford to pass on another franchise QB.

9. Carolina Panthers: Stephon Gilmore, CB, South Carolina

With Cox off the board, Carolina goes with one of the better corners in this draft. Gilmore’s stock is flying high.

10. Buffalo Bills: Luke Kuechly, LB, Boston College

Riley Reiff isn’t enough of a difference maker to go in the top 10. This pick will come down to Floyd, Barron or Kuechly. The tackling machine would solidify a much improved defense. 

11. Kansas City Chiefs: David DeCastro, G, Stanford

Scott Pioli is a New England guy and perhaps no team other than the Eagles likes drafting linemen early. DeCastro is an elite guard who will make multiple All-Pro teams.

12. Seattle Seahawks: Melvin Ingram, DE/OLB, South Carolina

Ingram is tailor-made for Pete Carroll’s elephant position. He can be the successor to Chris Clemons as a hybrid pass rusher.

13. Arizona Cardinals: Michael Floyd, WR, Notre Dame

Pairing the 6-foot-3, 220-pounder with Larry Fitzgerald would give the Cardinals a deadly combination.

14. Dallas Cowboys: Mark Barron, S, Alabama

Dallas may have to move up a few spots to secure the former All-American, but if he’s still there, there’s no way they pass on him.

15. Philadelphia Eagles: Quinton Coples, DE, North Carolina

The Eagles love drafting linemen in the first round, and Coples is incredibly talented.

16. New York Jets: Riley Reiff, T, Iowa

This pick will come down to an edge rusher or Reiff, but I think getting him at 16 is too good a value to pass up to solidify the right side of their offensive line.

17. Cincinnati Bengals: Courtney Upshaw, DE, Alabama

Marvin Lewis loves defense and he loves him some Upshaw.

18. San Diego Chargers: Whitney Mercilus, DE/OLB, Illinois

Larry English failed to be the pass rusher the Chargers envisioned when they took him at 16 in 2009. Mercilus is athletic and led the nation with 16 sacks last year.

19. Chicago Bears: Kendall Wright, WR, Baylor

Wright would be a fantastic fit with Cutler’s downfield throwing ability.

20. Tennessee Titans: Dontari Poe, DT, Memphis

Tennessee has some decent interior linemen in Jurrell Casey and Karl Klug, but none of them are the athlete that Poe is. After losing Jason Jones, he can become an elite player if he improves his technique.

21. Cincinnati Bengals: Dre Kirkpatrick, CB, Alabama

Leon Hall is returning from an Achilles injury, and Kirkpatrick would be a solid fit as a physical, lanky corner.

22. Cleveland Browns: Cordy Glenn, G/T, Georgia

I think Wright would be a tremendous fit, but with him off the board, Cleveland fixes its right tackle spot with the athletic Glenn.

23. Detroit Lions: Chandler Jones, DE, Syracuse

The Lions have a great defensive line, but Kyle Vanden Bosch is on his last legs. Jones is a late riser who could grow into a terrific LDE.

24. Pittsburgh Steelers: Dont’a Hightower, LB, Alabama

He has the ability to line up at any linebacker spot, and has the experience and pedigree that should make him a great fit in the Steelers 3-4 defense.

25. Denver Broncos: Doug Martin, RB, Boise State

This is my sleeper pick for round one. Peyton Manning’s offense relies on a running back who can catch the ball and pass protect. Martin fits that description.

26. Houston Texans: Nick Perry, DE/OLB, USC

Brooks Reed is a nice player, but Perry is substantially more talented. Putting them in a rotation opposite Connor Barwin will be deadly.

27. New England Patriots: Shea McClellin, OLB, Boise State

He’s the ultimate Swiss Army knife who’ll remind Bill Belichick of Mike Vrabel.

28. Green Bay Packers: Michael Brockers, DT, LSU

The Packers have the luxury of taking the best player on the board. Brockers could grow into a dominant five-technique.

29. Baltimore Ravens: Stephen Hill, WR, Georgia Tech

Hill is supposedly the apple of the eye for the Ravens. His downfield speed and size would be a great fit.

30. San Francisco 49ers: Amini Silatolu, G, Midwestern State

The Mike Iupati clone would fill out the rest of a young, tough line to clear holes for Frank Gore.

31. New England Patriots: Devon Still, DT, Penn State

I’m higher on Still than guys like Reyes and Worthy. If he checks out medically, I could see him growing into a great five technique.

32. New York Giants: Jonathan Martin, T, Stanford

The Giants take a best player available approach like last year and take a guy who was considered a lock for the top 25.

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By the time the 2012 NFL Draft kicks off Thursday night, it will have been 108 days since the Alabama Crimson Tide knocked off the LSU Tigers in the Allstate BCS Championship game. During those three-and-a-half months, scouts, coaches, draftniks and fans have dissected the hundreds of draft-eligible players who hope to hear their names called this weekend. In New England, April is like another season as Bill Belichick masterfully manipulates the draft board, wheeling and dealing his way around until he picks up both players and future draft picks.

This year is no different as the Patriots hold four of the top 63 picks, including picks 27 and 31. With a weak pass defense and a solid defensive line class, the Patriots should once again be major players, according to former Cleveland Browns scout Matt Williamson.

For the Pittsburgh native, the draft is still one of the most exciting times of the year.

“It’s the day that NFL teams pull out the curtain and show you their cards,” he said.

While the Patriots are notoriously stingy when it comes to divulging injury information and pregame chatter, the draft speaks clearly about the state of the team’s roster.

One area that Williamson could see the Pats upgrading is the front seven, and in particular, the defensive line. Luckily, this year’s group features some elite players as well as a promising group of second-tier prospects.

Mississippi State’s Fletcher Cox sits atop Williamson’s board, followed by Memphis’ Dontari Poe and LSU’s Michael Brockers. After the top three, there’s a big gap between the next group that includes Michigan State’s Jerel Worthy, Clemson’s Brandon Thompson, Penn State’s Devon Still and Connecticut’s Kendall Reyes. However, with the Patriots sitting at 27 and 31, Williamson said there’s a good chance New England gets involved with one of those second-tier players.

While Cox looks to be a surefire top-15 selection, there have been questions about where Poe and Brockers will be selected on Thursday. After a monster combine, Poe vaulted up draft boards while Brockers’ hype fizzled after a relatively pedestrian one.

Although the national media’s appetite for Poe has cooled, Williamson is high on the 6-foot-4, 346-pounder.

“A lot of people look at him and say he’s overrated because he didn’t make a lot of plays, but he’s not a bad effort player,” he said. “Most 350-pound defensive tackles like Phil Taylor and B.J. Raji don’t make a lot of plays. He’s a really rare guy who’s become underrated.”

On the other hand, Williamson sees Brockers, who’s been commonly linked to the Patriots in mock drafts as a Richard Seymour replacement, as a one-dimensional player at this stage of his young career.

“He’s a big, strong, great-looking kid. He’s just starting to scratch the surface, but he’s a long way away,” he said.

The 6-foot-6, 322-pounder has some position versatility and appears to be an ideal 3-4 DE, but his lack of pass rush skills have some scouts and draftniks, including Williamson, concerned.

In fact, when asked about the Brockers-Seymour comparison, Williamson noted that Seymour is a great pass rusher “can whip a guard consistently” while Brockers is pretty much just a run defender with some pocket-pushing ability right now.

If the Patriots plan to address their pass rush (something we’ve been clamoring for over the past few years), there are some intriguing guys that should be available when New England is on the clock.

Vinny Curry, a favorite of NEPatriotsDraft, was one of the players Williamson mentioned as a good fit in New England. Though he doesn’t necessarily translate to an outside linebacker in a 3-4, his hustle, great motor and pass rush skills should make him an excellent fit as a 4-3 defensive end/pass rusher, according to Williamson.

Another late riser, Chandler Jones of Syracuse, has been on Williamson’s sleeper list for a while now.

“He’s somebody I think the Patriots love. He’ll be a hot commodity on draft day.”

Besides upgrading the front seven, the Patriots have some work to do with the secondary. Late in the season, the group seemed to come together as Sterling Moore emerged as a solid player, however, there’s still some uncertainty about the depth chart with Devin McCourty, Ras-I Dowling and Kyle Arrington all in the fold.

After a sensational rookie season, McCourty struggled mightily in 2011, resulting in a switch to free safety late in the year. Dowling missed most of the season with a hip injury while Arrington went on to tie for the league lead with seven interceptions.

With Pat Chung locked in at one spot, the draft should reveal how the Patriots view McCourty’s longterm prospects.

Interestingly, Williamson thinks McCourty could be used in a Charles Woodson-type role throughout his career, matching up as a man-to-man safety against athletic tight ends like Dustin Keller while moving to the slot against physical receivers like Marques Colston.

One player who I have had the privilege of watching in person during my time at the University of Florida is Janoris Jenkins. The talented, but troubled corner played at North Alabama last season after being dismissed from the Gators following a marijuana-related arrest.

The 5-foot-9, 193-pounder is blessed with incredible agility, speed, return ability and ball skills, yet he may not even go in the first round.

“As a player, he might be the best cover corner in this draft, including [Morris] Claiborne,” Williamson said. “He has a long list of red flags off the field. I don’t know him, but by all accounts, he’s scary. As a player though, he’s exactly what the Patriots need.”

The risk-reward with a player like Jenkins is extremely volatile, and it will be interesting to see if he’s even considered when the Patriots pick at 27. If Belichick thinks he can keep him in line, I wouldn’t hesitate to draft him. I’ve likened him to a more athletic Asante Samuel because of his instincts.

Though Williamson and I agree that the Patriots would do better to add elite players rather than always trade back and add solid ones, it’s tough to imagine Belichick dealing up in this year’s draft.

Despite his inkling for moving down, Belichick has assembled one of the best 53-man rosters in the league by building the middle class. With a rather underwhelming cast of prospects this year, there’s probably nothing we can’t rule out when New England is on the clock.

So sit back, Pats fans. We’ll have three days of nail-biting, head-scratching and heart-pounding drama as the Patriots try and upgrade an already top-of-the-line roster.

Let’s see if the hoodie strikes again.

You can follow Matt Williamson on Twitter @WilliamsonNFL.

On Tuesday night, the schedule for the 2012 NFL season was released with massive primetime specials on ESPN and NFL Network. For the New England Patriots, they now have what amounts to the easiest strength of schedule based solely on last year’s records of their opponents. Now, this does NOT mean that the Patriots are a lock to make it to New Orleans in February? There are still many pitfalls on the schedule, but a lot of the tough opponents seem to have to come to Gillette Stadium. Even though the opponents do not seem as tough, keep in mind also that the Patriots are playing three of their first four away from home.

We won’t predict the schedule right now, but here I will give you my top five games to watch in 2012:

5. 49ers at Patriots (December 16^th, 8:20, NBC): This could be a potential Super Bowl Preview like it almost was last year. The last inter-conference matchup of the year will have a ton of storylines. For one, New England will see a hero and a villain return from the same team. Fans still love Randy Moss as he should make his second return to Foxboro since being a Patriot. However, the man who made the infamous catch for the Giants, Mario Manningham, will be in action. Cue the replays from NBC all during that game. For the 49ers, can Alex Smith have another good season with all the weapons around him? As for the Patriots, this matchup will have their dynamic offense seeing one of the best defenses in the league and you know a Harbaugh coached defense will get after the quarterback!

4. Texans at Patriots (December 10^th , 8:20, ESPN): This game makes the list because it is the only Monday Night Football game the Patriots are on this year. Houston was one of the best teams in the AFC last year and they did not even have their starting quarterback. Matt Schaub should be back and the tandem of Schaub-Johnson will be tough to stop for the young defense. This game could be a shootout of points even in the cold December air. Plus, this game could have playoff seeding on the line for a potential AFC playoff rematch.

3. Patriots at Ravens (September 23^rd, 8:20, NBC): Revenge will be on the minds of the Baltimore Ravens as New England goes on the road for this tough Sunday night matchup. The Ravens feel they outplayed the Patriots in the AFC Title game until Lee Evans (now in Jacksonville) dropped a game winning touchdown and kicker Billy Cundiff missed a cheap shot field goal. The Ravens will want to get New England in this one and we know their defense is probably the best at confusing Tom Brady. How will Joe Flacco improve in 2012? This will be one of the best games of the first month of the season.

2. Broncos at Patriots (October 7^th, 4:15, CBS): It is the game that everyone has been waiting for around the National Football League. Peyton Manning vs. Tom Brady. Two of the greatest quarterbacks to play the game finally go back to play each other. Manning’s team will be on primetime a lot in the early part of the season and he has to try to make a young receiving corps better along with a defense that was on the field a lot last year. It is not Tim Tebow in Denver, but they will be a contender in the AFC West in all likelihood if Manning is 100%, Another big game for both home field and seeding in the AFC playoffs early in the season.

1. Patriots at Jets (Thanksgiving, 8:20, NBC): I am a little bias in this one being a New Yorker but Rex Ryan is already talking about putting aside his massive Thanksgiving feast for this game. In my estimation, I think Tim Tebow will be the starter for the Jets by this game. These division rivalries are always heated and there will be many storylines surrounding this game at MetLife Stadium. Plus, this could be a game that determines a division winner, but watch out for the two Bills games earlier in the year. The Jet defense vs. Tom Brady is always an interesting matchup and it will be even more heated with #15 this year!

In typical Belichickian fashion, the Patriots attacked free agency looking for the best value. I won’t waste time recapping this strategy as I’ve already covered it before, but long story short, the Pats brought in a bunch of mid-level guys who strengthened the middle of the roster. Robert Gallery, Donte Stallworth and Steve Gregory all have a chance to be rotational guys who can make an impact on game day. Brandon Lloyd may finally solve our problem of finding a receiver who can attack outside the numbers.

But that leaves us with the ultimate question, what does New England need to do in the draft?

For me, the answer begins and ends with the defense. There truly isn’t an area on that unit that couldn’t use an upgrade except for inside linebacker or nose tackle. Assuming New England returns to a 3-4 defense, Jerod Mayo, Brandon Spikes and Vince Wilfork comprise an excellent middle of the defense. However, the edge of the front seven as well as the secondary could still use significant upgrades.

Unfortunately, this year’s crop of pass rushers doesn’t match up to last year’s group that featured Von Miller, Aldon Smith, Ryan Kerrigan and Brooks Reed among others. However, there are some fringe first-rounders who could be on the board when the Patriots are on the clock at 27 and 31. Vinny Curry, Shea McClellin, Nick Perry, Andre Branch and Courtney Upshaw would be my top five targets to consider late in the first. Each prospect has some holes in his game: Curry – level of competition, McClellin – positional fit, Perry – Linebacker or end?, Branch – run defense and Upshaw – athleticism/positional fit.

If New England hopes to resurrect the 3-4 defense, I’d argue that one of the key positions to fill via the draft would be at right defensive end. Ever since trading Richard Seymour in ’09, Belichick hasn’t been able to find anyone with the length, strength and athleticism to man that spot. Meanwhile, Seymour has made two Pro Bowls with the Raiders. Finding five-technique defensive ends isn’t an easy task. There simply aren’t many 6-foot-4 or taller human beings who weigh 300+ pounds who have the athleticism to get after the passer and the ability to stuff the run. This draft has a few intriguing names like Fletcher Cox, Quinton Coples and Dontari Poe, but all three should be off the board by pick 27. Some names to keep an eye on include Penn State’s Devon Still, Connecticut’s Kendall Reyes, Syracuse’s Chandler Jones, Nebraska’s Jared Crick and Cincinnati’s Derek Wolfe.

I hate to beat a dead horse but the Patriots secondary still isn’t good enough to win a championship. Despite spending high-round picks on Pat Chung, Devin McCourty and Ras-I Dowling, New England enters the draft with an underwhelming cast in the back end. If those three players play to their draft status, you have three above-average starters with Pro Bowl potential. But if Chung and Dowling remain injury-prone and McCourty plays like he did in 2011 as opposed to his rookie year, it’ll be another long year in Foxboro. With Sterling Moore and Kyle Arrington also in the fold, I think New England is in decent shape at corner. However, adding more talent to the safety spot is imperative. Unfortunately, safety is one of the weakest areas in the draft. Mark Barron is the lone first-round safety, and based on recent draft projections, he’ll be long gone by the time New England is on the clock. Harrison Smith of Notre Dame might not last to pick 48, and I have doubts whether he’s a true difference maker. Some mid-round guys to consider include George Iloka of Boise State, Brandon Taylor of LSU and Markelle Martin of Oklahoma State.

With an offense featuring elite playmakers in Rob Gronkowski, Aaron Hernandez, Wes Welker and Brandon Lloyd, the Pats need to make a concerted effort to improve one of the league’s weaker defenses. Armed with four picks in the top 64, it shouldn’t be too difficult to accomplish this task. If Belichick hits on those picks, this team will once again be in position to make a run at a fourth title.