Inside Linebackers and Possible Free Agents

Continuing the series of Patriots needs in the upcoming draft and identifying players that may fit the Patriots, today we look at Inside Linebackers. This is a position where Belichick likes to have size (see Ted Johnson, Mike Vrabel, Bryan Cox, Roman Phifer) and this year's ILB class is not very large. Here are 3 guys I found thatMAY fit with the Pats.

Kai Parham Virginia 6'3 253
Here's what the experts say: excellent athelete...strong and powerful...outstanding pass rusher and blitzer...played 3-4 scheme under Al Groh (who has NY Jets connection with Belichick)...leadership skills are top Notch. Will be taken by the end of round 3.

Abdul Hodge Iowa 6'2 234
Seems a little on the small side but the report is good:...very quick and atheletic...hits like a ton of bricks...sure tackler...great instincts...very strong...solid technique...smart team leader. Another guy that will be taken by the end of round 3.

Gerris Wilkins Georgia Tech 6'4 230
I saw this guy play a game or two and he seemed to make every tackle. The experts:...Has good size and the frame to get bigger...outstanding run defender...smart with good instincts...big hitter and solid tackler...superb pass rusher and blitzer...has experience at inside and outside linebacker. Will be drafted somewhere in round 3,4 or 5.

That's all I've got on the Inside Linebackers, but since the free agency period is about to begin...


Here are some Offensive players the Pats may target according to Patriots Football Weekly:

Running Backs
Shawn Bryson, Verron Haynes, Maurice Morris, Jonathan Wells.
Jamal Lewis is on record as saying the Pats are one of the four teams he wants to play for.

Wide Receivers
Reche Caldwell, Joe Jurevicious, Josh Reed, Antwan Randal El.
I know the Pats really like Jurivicious the las time he was a free agent, don't be surprised if he
is playing here next season.

Offensive Line
First they need to re-sign Stephen Neal, but the two names mentioned are Tom Nutten and Todd Fordham.


Defensive free agents the pats may target according to PFW:

Defensive tackle Grady Jackson to back up WIlfork. This guy is HUGE.

MLB
Gary Brackett from the Colts. Started for the COlts and led them with 127 tackles.
Earl Holmes

OLB
Julian Peterson (WOW), Antwan Peek, Ben Leber

CB
Ty Law, DeShea Townsend, Brian Williams

Safety
Adam Archuleta, Corey Chavous, Chris Hope, Tank Williams.


Sorry for the quick post, very busy lately, will keep you up to date once free agency begins!