When looking at last year’s statistics, we can see that the New England Patriots lost some considerable pass rushing talent over the course of the offseason. Trey Flowers, who joined the Detroit Lions as a free agent, led the club with 76.5 combined quarterback disruptions (9.5 sacks, 29 hits, 38 hurries). Adrian Clayborn, who was cut in a cost-saving move, finished fourth with a total of 30.5 pressures (3.5 sacks, 17 hits, 10 hurries).
Both are gone, leaving a sizable hole in New England’s pass rushing arsenal. The club did try its best to fill it, though: Michael Bennett was acquired via trade from the Philadelphia Eagles, while Michigan’s Chase Winovich was selected in the third round of this year’s draft.