In the lead-up to New England Patriots training camp, with the first public practice scheduled for July 26, it is timely to review each position on the roster with our annual “roster locks” series. After previously highlighting the running backs, wide receivers, defensive ends and linebackers, let’s move on to the defensive tackles:
On the bubble: Vincent Valentine
Explaining the locks: The Patriots obviously didn't trade a third-round pick in exchange for Shelton and a fifth-rounder if they didn't intend on him being a significant part of their plans this year.