Defensive storylines
Let’s see the pass rush
One of the more notable moments from OTAs was a quiet series of defensive snaps during a period dedicated to third-down work. Hightower, Judon, Van Noy and Uche all packed close to the line of scrimmage, where defensive tackle Montravius Adams was the only player with his hand in the ground. That type of package wreaked havoc on opponents in 2019, the last time Hightower and Van
Noy teamed together, whereas last year the Pats recorded just 24 sacks.
There’s no question the pass rush will improve this season.
But by how much?
What can the rookies do?
If there’s anything the Patriots can count on second-round defensive tackle Christian Barmore and third-round edge rusher Perkins for this season, it should be pass rush. Both ranked among college football’s most productive rushers on a per-snap basis last year. Barmore seems perfectly suited for a third-down role, as a natural penetrator with rare size. Meanwhile, Perkins burst off the edge on several snaps of team drills in OTAs. With all the attention focused on Jones, it’s easy to forget the Pats could see contributions from other rookies in 2021. That is, unless one or two of these rushers make their mark on minicamp.
Does Joejuan Williams have a role?
Williams has long viewed himself as a complete defensive back capable of playing corner and safety. It doesn’t seem his coaches agree.
After what was essentially a redshirt rookie season in 2019, the Pats utilized him as a coverage specialist against tight ends last year. Williams enjoyed one standout performance against Miami’s Mike Gesicki in Week 1, before a roller-coaster season the rest of the way. Barring a breakout, he projects as the team’s fifth-best option at corner, and would be even lower on a list of best available safeties.
The arrival of Jalen Mills, who proved in 2020 he can actually bounce between corner and safety in Philadelphia, has complicated Williams’ future in Foxboro. What can he do to reverse his fortunes?