NFL Power Rankings Through Week 6

1. Pittsburgh Steelers(4-1) - They have the best defense in the NFL, and with QB Ben Roethlisberger back, they now have to be the most well rounded team in the NFL.

2. New York Jets (5-1) - They have the ability to both run the ball and stop the run. There next big challenge may not be until week 13 at Gillette against the Patriots.

3. New England Patriots (4-1) - If their defense can play like they did in the 4th qua

rter and overtime, against the Ravens, they should be a very tough team to beat.

4. Indianapolis Colts (4-2) - They have had two tough losses on the road, but they still have

the best offense in the NFL.

5. Baltimore Ravens (4-2) - Offense has struggled at times, but their defense is still top 5 in almost every statistical category.

6. New Orleans Saints (4-2) - Struggled in some close games in the beginning of the year, but it looks

like things started clicking in there win against an underrated Buccaneers team.

7. Philadelphia Eagles (4-2)- It doesn't matter whether its Kolb or Vick under center the Eagles are hard to beat.

8. Atlanta Falcons (4-2) - Very talented team, but have been inconsistent at times.

9. Houston Texans (4-2) -Andre Johnson has

fought through injury this year, and shown why he is the best receiver in the NFL. He can take over a game at any time.

10. New York Giants (4-2) - Their defensive line is looking awfully similar to the 20

07 d-line that led them to a super bowl win, the Giants could be very dangerous this year.

11. Tennessee Titans (4-2) - The Titans may not have many big names on defense, but they put a lot of pressure on the QB and make it tough to score.

12. Kansas City Chiefs ( 3-2) - The Chiefs have lost 2 games in a row, but their offense has shown some sign of improvement and their defense is still very good.

13. Miami Dolphins (3-2) - Tough game coming up

against the Steelers, but they have a talented enough team to beat them.

14. Green Bay Packers (3-3) - Have been plagued with injuries. They really need Aaron Rodgers, and last years defensive player of the year Charles Woodson, to carry them through until they get some of their key guys back.

15. Chicago Bears (4-2) -The Bears are a little overrated in my mind, they have had one solid win against the Packers, other than they are pretty average.

16. Seattle Seahawks (3-2) - Great team to be a fan

of, they don't have a lot of stars on their roster but they are getting the most out of their players and have won against some talented teams.

17. Washington Redskins (3-3) - You never know what you are going to get with the Redskins. One week their defense is stifling offenses, the next their letting up 500 yards.

18. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (3-2) - I really like this team, I don't think they have enough talent this year, but they have a lot of potential and will be good in the future.

19. Minnesota Vikings (2-3) - The opposite of the Seahawks, tons of talent, underachieving, team full of big names.

20. Arizona Cardinals (3-2) - Not as good as there 3-2 record, they have been completely blown out in their two losses.

21. Jacksonville Jaguars (3-3) - Their success depends on QB David Garrard (or whoever is under center), unfortunately he is extremely inconsistent.

22. Cincinnati

Bengals (2-3) -Carson Palmer and the Bengals have had a really disappointing year so far, hopefully a bye can re-energize their team.

23. San Diego Chargers (2-4) - Plenty of talent to make a push towards the playoff, they have shown they gave rip off 6 or 7 wins is a row.

24. St. Louis Rams (3-3) - Rookie QB Sam Bradford has really done a great job so far. What was really impressive was their ability to beat the Chargers after a blow out loss against the Lions.

25. Denver Broncos (2-4) - They are averaging 2.7 yards per carry on the ground. It d

oes not matter how good you are at passing or playing defense, you need to be able to run the ball to win games in the NFL.

26. Dallas Cowboys (1-4) - Poorly coached, overrated, and undisciplined is the best way to describe them.

27. San Fransisco 49ers (1-5) - With RB Frank Gore, WR Michael Crabtree, TE Vernon Davis, MLB Patrick Willis, and CB Nate Clements, you would think their team would be better than 1-5.

28. Detroit Lions (1-5) -Three of there losses have been by 5 points or less, this is definitely a

different Lions team than the last few years.

29. Oakland Raiders (2-4) - Solid defense at times, but another team that will be in line for a quarterback in the draft

this year.

30. Cleveland Browns (1-4) - They have kept most games close, but they are just not that talented.

31. Carolina Panthers (0-5) - More talented than their 0-5 record, but they need to stick with a QB and find him some legitimate receivers.

32. Buffalo Bills (0-5) - With the first overall pick should they go Andrew Luck, Ryan Mallet or Jake Locker?

AFC & NFC East Quarter Review

NFC East- This division is completely up for grabs.

By New Contributor Jimmy Hawley

Washington Redskins (2-2)

Washington has been greatly improved by the arrival of new coach Mike Shanahan and longtime Eagles QB Donovan McNabb. The team has to be ecstatic about their 2-0 start within the division with big wins over the Cowboys and the Eagles. While the loss to the Rams was a little baffling, the Redskins have shown a new toughness under Shanahan and even Albert Haynesworth, who has been a major distraction this season, played very well against the Eagles.

Standout Players: Donovan McNabb, Brian Orakpo, Santana Moss

New York Giants (2-2)

The Giants finally saw the resurgence of their defense in their last game against the Bears, registering an

incredible 10 sacks. The defense, which looked awful in the loss to the Colts, is starting to find its rhythm. The offense, however, is still a big problem spot, and they need improved play out of Eli Manning if they want to contend in the division.

Standout Players: Ahmad Bradshaw, Hakeem Nicks, Osi Umenyiora, Mathias Kiwanuka, Justin Tuck

Philadelphia Eagles (2-2)

Philadelphia may have taken for granted how great it is to have a reliable QB in Donovan McNabb. The concussion to QB Kevin Kolb opened up the door for Michael Vick to showcase what could only be characterized as a MVP performance in his first three appearances, leaving Kolb, who was once thought of as the future franchise QB as merely an afterthought. Vickmania may need to cool down, however, as Vick suffered an injury to his ribs. The injury is not likely to keep Vick out of action for more than two weeks, but it is obvious the type of style Vick plays makes him more susceptible to injuries. Kevin Kolb will get the chance in the mean time to try to show why the Eagles traded away McNabb, and QB situation in Philadelphia will likely be a yearlong storyline and continue into the offseason. Despite the issues, the Eagles are right in the mix to contend for the division and have the talent to rise to the top, however that chance will suffer if Vick cannot stay healthy.

Standout Players: Michael Vick, DeSean Jackson, LeSean McCoy

Dallas Cowboys (1-2)

Dallas seems to have one of the most talented teams in the league every year, yet it is always a question of if that talent can translate into wins. The Cowboys are usually a team that starts out great and fades as the season progresses, but this year they have struggled right out of the gate. A mediocre offensive line has made the running game practically nonexistent. They may have righted the ship with the win against the Texans, but the team has a brutal schedule this year. The defense is solid but does not create many turnovers and if they continue to be a one dimensional team on offense, they will not be able to win the division.

Standout Players: Tony Romo, Miles Austin, DeMarcus Ware

Prediction: The Giants defense and improved play from Eli Manning earns New York the division title in what will likely be the closest divisional race in the NFC.

AFC East – One of the strongest divisions in the NFL

By Keith McGonigle

New York Jets (3-1)

After a tough season opening loss to the Ravens, everyone criticized Jets and the arrogance they displayed in Hard Knocks. Since then, however, they have looked like the super bowl contenders they talked about. Mark Sanchez has really come on, throwing 8 touchdowns 0 interceptions in the last three games. Rex Ryan’s defense has had some injuries, but they have not lost a step. With WR Santonio Holmes coming back from his suspension and CB Darrelle Revis and LB Calvin Pace both coming back from injury, it is scary to think how good the Jets could be.

Surprise players: LaDainian Tomlinson, Mark Sanchez, Dustin Keller

New England Patriots (3-1)

The Patriots first three games were a roller coaster ride, but they are coming off a huge road game against the Miami Dolphins, a team they have struggled against in the past. Bill Belichick’s teams are usually defined by veteran players and high IQ guys. This year the Patriots team is filled with a lot of young fast players that are still trying to grasp all the concepts. Six rookies have started and contributed so far this year. The offense has been very efficient; they haven’t put up great stats, but lead the NFL in points per game. The big question will be can the young defensive players mature and play like a Belichick coached team.

Surprise Players: Aaron Hernandez, Rob Gronkowski, Brandon Tate, Patrick Chung

Miami Dolphins (2-2)

Many people picked the Dolphins to win the AFC East this year so the 2-2 start is somewhat disappointing. Overall, the Dolphins have played pretty well except a few phases of the game. They just fired their special teams coach after two poor performances against the Jets and Patriots. They have also had too many turnovers and some questionable play calling. The talent is still there though; individually a lot of players have done well. They have a very tough stretch of games coming up; we will see what the Dolphins are made of in the coming weeks.

Surprise Players: Davone Bess, Cameron Wake, Jason Allen

Buffalo Bills (0-4)

There really is not a lot to say about the Buffalo Bills. They are the worst team in the NFL. You have to think that this season they are just playing for the first overall pick in next year’s draft, so they can finally get a franchise QB. The only problem is the Bills are so bad at drafting I don’t know if they will even select a QB.

Surprise Players: CJ Spiller. Ryan Fitzpatrick, Steve Johnson

Prediction: It will come down to the Patriots and Jets. The Jets are a very streaky team so I am nervous to just give them the AFC East. I think the Patriots will end up taking it and the Jets will get in with the Wild Card.

New York Jets 2010 Analysis and Preview

Last Years Record 9-7

Wins: Texans, Patriots, Titans, Raiders, Panthers, Bills, Bucs, Colts, Bengals

Losses: Saints, Dolphins (2x), Bills, Jaguars, Patriots, Falcolns

Biggest Playmaker Darrelle Revis

CB, Pittsburg, Drafted #14, 4^th year
Revis established himself as one of the top 3 corner backs in the NFL last year. He helped shut down countless big time players. With the addition of Antonio Cromartie, the Jets defense may be unstoppable this year.

Impact Player Nick Mangold

C, Ohio State, Drafted #29, 5^th year

In a 5 year span, Mangold has become the best center in football. He paved the way for the best rushing attack last year, and he is the signal caller for the best offensive line in the NFL.

Biggest Free Agent Addition Antonio Cromartie

CB, Florida St., Drafted #19, 5^th year

They actually acquired Cromartie via trade, but this had to be their biggest off-season transaction. The addition of Antonio Cromartie to the Jets secondary is just scary. In his first year as a starter in San Diego, Cromartie was a playmaker who racked up 10 interceptions and 19 pass deflections. Since then his production has fallen off, but if the 6’2”, 26 year old corner could return to his form all NFL QB’s should be pretty nervous. Revis and Cromartie could be the best cornerback tandem in the NFL this year.

Biggest Offseason Loss Thomas Jones

RB, Virginia, Drafted #7, 11^th year

The biggest loss for the Jets is Thomas Jones. They lost a guy who had 1300+ yards and 13+ touchdowns the last two seasons. They are replacing him with LaDainian Tomlinson who has been on the decline since his great year in 2006. It simply does not make sense from any standpoint. Losing a dependable back like Jones, and bringing in a wild card like LT and for some reason paying him more money is not a very smart move.

Biggest Draft Steal Joe McKnight

RB, USC, Drafted #112, Rookie

McKnight was supposed to be the next Reggie Bush at USC but never ended up having the same production. He has great speed, quickness and hands and at worst will be a good 3^rd down back that can help replace Leon Washington. Had Joe stayed in college one more year and not entered the draft after his junior season he would have had a good chance of being drafted in the first two rounds, so this is definitely a steal for the Jets.

Biggest Draft Reach None

Offseason Grade A-

Losing Thomas Jones could be a big loss, but they had a great offseason. Trading for Antonio Cromartie and Santonio Holmes for low draft picks were great moves because they are low risk, high reward guys. They also had a very solid draft adding depth in the secondary, offensive line and running game. Adding a veteran like Jason Taylor can’t hurt either. If you are a Jets fan you have to be happy with how the offseason played out.

X-Factor Mark Sanchez

QB, USC, Drafted #5, 2^nd year

The Jets boasted the best defense and rushing attack in the NFL last year, the one piece they were missing, however, was a great passing attack. If Sanchez can put it all together the Jets could be the total package and a tough team to beat.

Name You Should Know Jimmy Leonhard

SS, Wisconsin, Undrafted, 6^th year

A former walk-on in college and was undrafted rookie, Leonhard got his first chance as a full time starter last year. He ended up playing all 16 games and racking up 76 tackles. At 5’8” Leonard is not afraid to deliver a blow and help out blitzing the QB. He is a fun player to watch and should only get better.

Rising Star David Harris

ILB, Michigan, Drafted #47, 4^th year

In only his 3^rd season as a pro Harris led the team in tackles with 127 tackles, and racked up 5.5 sacks, 2 interceptions and 2 forced fumbles, some impressive numbers for an inside linebacker. Look for him to continue his success this year.

Offensive Outlook B+

The only thing that held the Jets back last year was their inability to pass the ball effectively every game. Sanchez has shown flashes of brilliance and if he could play consistently well the offense will be hard to stop. Look for RB Shonn Greene to have a possible break out season.

Defensive Outlook A

Somehow the Jets have been able to improve on last year’s number one rated defense. With the addition of some new key players and Rex Ryan blitzing scheme it would be surprising to see their defense not ranked in the top 5.

Special Teams Outlook C-

Losing Leon Washington, one of the best return men in the game will be a big blow for their special teams. K Nick Folk and P Steve Wheatherford are both guys that you are not going to write home about.

Projected 2010 Record 11-5

The Jets have a chance of being a very good team this year. Unfortunately they have a very tough schedule ahead of them. Playing in the AFC east is never easy but they also have the Ravens, Vikings, Green Bay and Steelers as out of conference opponents. The biggest thing for them really is Mark Sanchez, if he has a great year they could easily win 14+ games.

Buffalo Bills 2010 Analysis and Preview

Last Years Record            6-10

Wins: Bucs, Jets, Pathers, Dolphins, Colts, Chiefs

Losses: Patriots (2x), Saints, Dolphins, Browns, Texans, Titans, Jaguars, Jets, Falcons

Biggest Playmaker            Jairus Byrd

FS, Oregon, Drafted #42, 2^nd year

Jairus Byrd had a standout rookie season bringing in 9 interceptions, while only starting 11 games.  He was the one real bright spot for a team that struggled all year.

Impact Player            Lee Evans

WR, Wisconsin, Drafted #13, 7^th year

Lee Evans had a tough year last year, but what do you expect when you have 3 different starting quarterbacks, a coach fired in the middle of the season, and Terrell Owens as your other receiver?  Lee has been an impact player for the Bills even though he has never had stability or a great offense around him.

Biggest Free Agent Addition            Andra Davis

ILB, Florida, Drafted #141 , 9^th year

With the Bills switching to the 3-4 defensive scheme this year they needed some veteran help at linebacker.  Andra will fit in nicely at ILB alongside Paul Posluszny.  Andra is a consistent player who is good for 90+ tackles a year and will help the Bill’s smoothly transition into their new defense. 

Biggest Offseason Loss            Terrell Owens

WR, Tennessee-Chattanooga, Drafted #89, 15^th year

Some may see losing Terrell Owens as addition by subtraction, but the fact of the matter is that Terrell led the Bills in both receptions and receiving yards.  Couple that with the fact that they lost their number 3 receiver in Josh Reed and you are looking at a very thin receiving core.

Biggest Draft Steal            Alex Carrington

DE, Arkansas St. Drafted #72, Rookie

At 6’5” 285 lbs. Alex will be a perfect fit as a defensive end in the 3-4.  He is solid against the run and will be able contribute right away.

Biggest Draft Reach            C.J. Spiller

RB, Clemson, Drafted #9, Rookie

C.J. Spiller was one of my favorite players in the draft, extremely versatile, a playmaker, and he could be drafted by any team and help out right away.  With that being said, this was still a bad pick.  The Bill’s do not have a very good team and there is not a lot of depth at many positions.  They already have Fred Jackson and Marshawn Lynch, two good backs, and their biggest needs were at Quarterback and Offensive line. 

Offseason Grade            D-

Last year the Bill’s luckily went 6-10, they had no true number one QB and a poor offensive line.  They had a chance to draft Jimmy Clausen, but ended up unthinkably passing on him twice and not selecting a QB until the 7^th round.  They let up 46 sacks last year and lost some lineman, yet did not pick up an offensive lineman until the 5^th round.  They are switching to the 3-4 defense this year and instead of going out and getting a true nose tackle they are switching Kyle Williams, a guy that has only been a 3-technique DT, to nose tackle.  Basically this offseason they did not address any of their biggest needs.  It would be very hard to envision the Bills having a better season then last year.

X-Factor            QB Position

The biggest question is who is going to step up and emerge as the Bill’s starting QB.  The Bills have Trent Edwards, Ryan Fitzpatrick, Brian Brohm, and rookie Levi Brown on their roster, all unproven starters.

Name You Should Know            Aaron Schobel

DE/OLB, TCU, Drafted #46, 10^th year

Aaron has had a very good career in Buffalo, posting over eight sacks six times in his career and is one of those players that can really turn it on in some games.  He would probably be more recognized if he wasn’t playing in Buffalo.  It will be interesting to see how Aaron transitions from defensive end, which he has played his whole career, to the OLB position in the 3-4.

Rising Star            Jairus Byrd

FS, Oregon, Drafted #42, 2^nd year

It is rare to see a rookie defensive back come in and make such an impact on defense in his first year.   Especially a guy like Jarius who was a 2^nd round pick, undervalued because of a poor combine (ran only a 4.60 in the 40) and only started because of injuries.  It will be fun to watch Jairus develop in the coming years.

Offensive Outlook            D

This is a QB driven league and not having a true number one QB, or at least a guy they can develop and build a team around, is a huge mistake.  They do have 3 very good running backs, so they have some possibilities on offense.

Defensive Outlook            C+

They have some good young talent on their defense, but switching to the 3-4 is a tough transition especially without the right personnel.  I think the biggest mistake they are making is not getting a true nose tackle.  There is a reason that guys like Vince Wilfork, Casey Hampton, Aubrayo Fraklin, and Kris Jenkins are so coveted, because the position is very difficult to play.  You cannot just throw a guy in there for the first time and expect him to succeed.  

Special Teams Outlook            A-

They just drafted in one of the best college special teams players in a long time, in C.J. Spiller. The return game should be very exciting to watch with him back there.  P Brian Moorman, and K Rian Lindell are two of the best at their positions after considering they have to play in the brutal weather in Buffalo.

Projected 2010 Record            4-12

I think that a projection of 4-12 is very generous.  The only way I can see them winning more games than they did in 2009 is if Ryan Fitpatrick or Trent Edwards has a great year, and the defense transitions well into their new scheme.  In another division they may be able to squeak out some more wins, but they are playing in potentially the toughest division in the NFL, and will have to play the Patriots, Jets, and Dolphins twice.  I think they would be lucky to go 1-5 against them.   

Miami Dolphins 2010 Analysis and Preview

Last Years Record            7-9

Wins: Bills, Jets (x2), Bucs, Panthers, Patriots, Jaguars

Losses: Falcons, Colts, Chargers, Saints, Patriots, Bills, Titans, Texans, Steelers

Biggest Playmaker            Brandon Marshall

WR, Central Florida, Drafted #119, 5th Year

Has yet to be a playmaker for the Dolphins as he was just traded to Miami this offseason.  A 2x Pro-Bowler, big and fast, he is just what young quarterback Chad Henne needs to become a great NFL quarterback.  If Marshall can keep his off-field issues at a minimum, look for him to break 100 catches for the fourth straight year as the Dolphins go-to receiver

Impact Player            Jake Long

LT, Michigan, Drafted #1, 3rd Year

A good left tackle can be as important to an offense as any other position.  Blocking any young quarterback's backside is vital, and the Dolphins have a great asset there in Jake Long.  After giving up just four sacks in 2009, Long will lead an offensive line that led the Dolphins to the fourth highest rushing total in the NFL.

Biggest Free Agent Addition            Brandon Marshall

WR, Central Florida, Drafted #119, 5th Year

Even though Marshall was drafted in the fourth round of the 2006 NFL Draft, it was an absolute steal for the Dolphins to pick him up for only a second rounder.  The Dolphins were in desperate need of a standout receiver, and they picked up a top 5 wideout in the prime of his career.  Great move.

Biggest Offseason Loss            Gibril Wilson

FS, Tennessee, Drafted #136, 7th Year

The loss of free safety Gibril Wilson left a big question mark in the Dolphins secondary.  Wilson amassed 93 tackles in 2009, a year after posting 129 tackles for the Oakland Raiders.  Currently the Dolphins are looking at Chris Clemons as their starting FS, their 2009 5th round pick, with rookie fifth rounder Rashad Jones backing him up.  

Biggest Draft Steal            A.J. Edds

ILB, Iowa, Drafted #119, Rookie

A.J. Edds is by no means a household name, but the Dolphins chose a player in the 4th round that could see some immediate playing time.  A good athlete at 6'4" 246 lbs and a sub 4.7 runner, Edds was very effective in pass coverage, racking up five interceptions in his senior year.  He could see some action his rookie year in nickel situations as well as on special teams.

Biggest Draft Reach            Nolan Carroll

CB, Maryland, Drafted #145, Rookie

Nolan Carroll started six games at CB at Maryland.  He has major durability issues after being injured multiple times, and the Dolphins drafted him based on his combine performance.  Not a fan.  

Offseason Grade            A-

The Dolphins made a huge pickup trading for Brandon Marshall.  This move essentially made their offseason.  Returning both of their running backs, their quarterback and an offensive line (plus RG Richie Incognito), a playmaker at WR was huge for their offense.  

X-Factor            Ronnie Brown

RB, Auburn, Drafted #2, 6th Year

Ronnie Brown's health is the x-factor.  He has been consistently hurt during his five-year career, appearing in all 16 games only once (2008) and twice appearing in less than ten.  If Brown can stay healthy he could lead a very dangerous offense.  The Dolphins run game should improve with the improvements made in their passing game (Brandon Marshall).

Name You Should Know            Yeremiah Bell

SS, Eastern Kentucky, Drafted #213, 8th Year

Yeremiah Bell enjoyed another solid season in 2009, tallying 114 tackles and three interceptions.  Certainly not a household game, this hard hitting safety has a huge impact on his defense, and look for that impact to increase with the loss of fellow safety Gibril Wilson.

Rising Star            Vontae Davis

CB, Maryland, Drafted #25, 2nd Year

Vontae Davis enjoyed a successful rookie season with 53 tackles and four intercptions, with one for a score.  Davis has a lot of potential, but will have to improve to become an elite corner...he allowed 46 catches in 71 attempted passes, ranking 61st in the NFL.

Offensive Outlook            B+

Much of this grade rests on the development of QB Chad Henne.  He experienced moderate success in his first year at the helm, completing over 60% of his passes, but will need to cut down on the mistakes (14 interceptions to only 12 touchdowns).  The addition of WR Brandon Marshall will definitely help, and he has the luxury of a very impressive rushing attack.

Defensive Outlook            C+

In 2009, the Dolphins were 24th against the pass and 18th against the run (in terms of total yards) in the NFL.  With no major changes to the defense other than the addition of Karlos Dansby, who will have a big impact, the Dolphins defense will likely not improve drastically.  With many young players in the lineup it may be a few years before the Dolphins have a great defense.  

Special Teams Outlook            B+

Dan Carpenter has been very solid the last two years as the Phins' kicker, hitting 84% and then 89% of his field goals.  Punter Brandon Fields also enjoyed a great 2009 season, and with these two returning the Dolphins should once again have a solid kicking game.  Davone Bess handled punt returns last year and needs to step up if the Dolphins want to win the field position battle, averaging only 7.5 yards per return and fumbling three times.  Ted Ginn Jr. is gone as the Kick Returner and the Dolphins will likely look to backup RB Patrick Cobbs, who had 16 returns in 2009, to fill that role.

Projected 2010 Record            8-8

Playing in the AFC East this year will not be easy (except when they get to play the Bills!).  It may be the second toughest division (to the NFC East), but expect the Dolphins to do very well outside of their division. I just don't think their offense is good enough to carry their poor defense to an AFC East title this year...Chad Henne go prove me wrong!

New England Patriots 2010 Analysis and Preview

Last Years Record            10-6

Wins: Bills (x2), Falcons, Ravens, Titans, Bucs, Dolphins, Jets, Panthers,  Jaguars

Losses: Jets, Broncos, Colts, Saints, Dolphins, Texans, Ravens (Playoffs)

Biggest Playmaker            Tom Brady

QB, Michigan, Drafted #199, 11th Year

Tom Brady consistently makes plays and makes everyone around him better.  Brady could have another great year with a veteran offensive line and a very solid receiving corps.

Impact Player            Vince Wilfork

NT, Miami, Drafted #21, 7th Year

Entering his seventh season with the Patriots, Wilfork has been a staple of the Patriots 3-4 defense.  A huge key to this defense is a dominating nose tackle who can stuff the middle and take on two blockers.  While he may not boast huge numbers, he is the key to the Pats’ defense.

Biggest Free Agent Addition            Torry Holt

WR, NC State, Drafted #7, 12th Year

Torry Holt will be a great complement to fellow WR’s Randy Moss and Wes Welker.  As Moss consistently draws double teams down the field, Torry Holt could have a big year.  He only had 51 catches for 722 yards and zero touchdowns (all career lows) in 2009, but he was playing for the run-first Jacksonville Jaguars.

Biggest Offseason Loss            Benjamin Watson

TE, Georgia, Drafted #32, 7th Year

Watson has been consistent for the Patriots, and losing him and fellow TE Chris Baker left the Pats with a serious question mark at the position.  Now they will look to Alge Crumpler to be the leader of the group, with two rookies (Gronkowski and Hernandez) to likely be the top pass catchers.

Biggest Draft Steal            Aaron Hernandez

TE, Florida, Drafted #113, Rookie

Hernandez is a versatile athlete that will fit in very well with the Patriots system.  At Florida he was involved in the passing game as a tight end and a wideout, as well as in their option attack.  Hernandez is electric with the ball in his hands and picking him up in the fourth round was a great move by the Pats’ management.

Biggest Draft Reach            Zoltan Mesko

P, Michigan, Drafted #150, Rookie

Mesko has a big leg and the potential to be a game changer, but drafting a punter is always risky business.  Not to take anything away from Mesko, as he has been impressive so far, but only time will tell if it was worth using a draft pick to pick him up.                 

Offseason Grade            B

The Patriots went quietly about their business, focusing mainly on re-signing veterans such as Vince Wilfork, Kevin Faulk, Leigh Bodden and Stephen Neal.  The Patriots addressed their needs in the draft, selecting two tight ends who should be factors immediately, and bolstering their defense with the selections of versatile CB Devin McCourty and LB Brandon Spikes.  Getting a deal done with LG holdout Logan Mankins is a must. 

X-Factor            Wes Welker

WR, Texas Tech, Undrafted, 7th Year

After blowing out his knee in the final (irrelevant) regular season game in 2009, Welker's knee should be a question mark only because of his importance to the team. Julian Edelman served as an adequate replacement but Welker is a vital part of the Patriots' success.  Welker should be cleared sometime in August

Name You Should Know            Tully Banta-Cain

OLB, California, Drafted #239, 8th Year

Banta-Cain rejoined the Patriots after two seasons in San Francisco.  After seeing his role increased in 2006 in which he registered 5.5 sacks at OLB, he left for California, only to register four in two years combined.  Tully stepped up big for the Pats last year with 9.5 sacks, and look for continued success this year

Rising Star            Jerod Mayo

ILB, Tennessee, Drafted #10, 3rd Year

Drafted in the first round out of Tennessee in the 2008 draft, Jerod Mayo has been a consistent player in the middle of the Pats’ defense.  However, Mayo has only 1.5 sacks, zero interceptions and two forced fumbles in two years combined.  If he can become more of a consistent playmaker Mayo will be the next star of the Pats’ defense.

Offensive Outlook            A-

Tom Brady is still the quarterback of the New England Patriots.  Coming off a season in which the Pats posted the third highest yards per game totals, we expect similar success for the Pats offense this year who added the dynamic (but aging) Torry Holt, all-around TE Rob Gronkowski and playmaking TE Aaron Hernandez.  If Laurence Maroney can stay healthy and have a successful year, expect the Patriots to be very hard to stop.

Defensive Outlook            B-

The Patriots most glaring weaknesses is their pass rush, where they ranked 23^rd in total sacks last year.  Tully Banta-Cain stepped up with 9.5 a year ago and will have to continue his success.  Vince Wilfork is consistently huge (literally) in the middle, while the young secondary must step up.  The Patriots will need a few players to become consistent playmakers if they want to have an elite defense.

Special Teams Outlook            B

After Chris Hanson's 32nd ranking yards per punt in 2009, the Patriots drafted Zoltan Mesko from Michigan. Stephen Gostkowski has been reliable throughout his career, nailing 19/20 FG attempts inside the 40.  Welker averaged a very healthy 12.5 yards per punt return last year.  If the Patriots can get decent production in their kick return game (Brandon Tate?) they could have a very effective Special Teams unit.

Projected 2010 Record            10-6

It’s hard to bet against the mysterious Bill Belichick and QB Tom Brady, especially when surrounded with weapons.  If the tight ends can overcome their inexperience and the Patriots can generate a pass rush, look for them to be hard to beat.  It certainly won’t be easy for the Pats, as they have the 6^th hardest schedule in the NFL (according to 2009 Win-Loss Records).