The Patriots front 7, especially the linebacker position, could use an upgrade in speed and athleticism overall to be more effective in stopping the run while being able to defend the pass. The Patriots have 3 solid starters at the position in Dont’a Hightower, Marquis Flowers, and Kyle Van Noy, but don’t have a lot of depth behind them. With Hightower’s injury history plus Flowers being an impending free agent after the season, there is a need to groom a LB to take over next year.
One of the players that should be a solid fit is Georgia’s Lorenzo Carter.