DEFENSIVE LINEMEN (10)
Alan Branch (unrestricted free agent): Branch had a career year and just turned 32. If the Patriots can keep him for two years and maybe $7 million, they should do it.
Malcom Brown (signed through 2018): Brown had his moments but needs more consistency. It’s important for him to make the leap next year. The talent suggests it’s possible.
Trey Flowers (signed through 2018): Led the Pats with seven sacks and was consistently disruptive with 2.5 sacks in the Super Bowl. Flowers might be a budding star.
Geneo Grissom (signed through 2017): The 2015 third-rounder was cut out of camp but worked his way back to the active roster in a special teams capacity.
Woodrow Hamilton (signed future contract): Finished season on practice squad and will be under team control at least through 2017.
Darius Kilgo (signed future contract): Finished season on practice squad and will be under team control at least through 2017.
Chris Long (unrestricted free agent): Long’s value transcends the sack totals, evidenced by a forced holding penalty in the fourth quarter of the Super Bowl. It’d be wise to keep him on another one-year deal.
Rob Ninkovich (signed through 2017): Ninkovich was again productive, but they’ll probably be drafting his replacement in April.
Jabaal Sheard (unrestricted free agent): Sheard flashed in spurts but disappeared now and again, too. On the whole, it was a good two years, but it might be over.
Vincent Valentine (signed through 2019): The third-round pick was impressive in limited duty as a rookie. He’s got to prove he is ready for more in 2017.