The Patriots did a major overhaul of their linebacker room in 2022.
Out went productive veterans like Donta Hightower, Kyle Van Noy and Jamie Collins. In -- and elevated -- were smaller, more versatile players who might not bring the same thump but could contribute speed. All the changes didn’t take perfectly.
But the mix of old-school linebacking style led by Ja’Whaun Bentley, the rise of Jahlani Tavai and the second-level help from safeties like Jabrill Peppers, Kyle Dugger and Adrian Phillips helped the Patriots put together a solid 2022.