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NEPatriotsDraft gets technical on us with the specific names for the linebacker positions in the Patriots defense, aka Sam-Mike-Will-Jack, and a nice breakdown of some of the top OLB prospects.

While I lean DE at 17, I think that if there is an OLB conversion project with real potential, even if he might need a little time to develop into a three-down OLB, he would be an excellent addition. But until I see Smith, Houston, and Ayers look fluid and athletic in space I remain uncertain if any of them are a) truly capable of playing in the 3-4, b) physical enough to hold the point of attack, or c) have the football nerdiness required of a BB draft pick.

I’d love to draft another Willie McGinest, but I’m just not convinced yet that any of these guys are the next Willie Mac. After we see and hear about the results from the combine we’ll have a much better sense of where they stand.

The Belichick defense demands for players who are versatile, so just because you’re the weak side OLB, usually the pass rush specialist, you will still be required to drop into coverage and play the run more than other 3-4 systems.

So for Patriots to draft an OLB in the first round they will have to be big, athletic, physical and smart. Without exception.

There are plenty of guys out there who can just pin their ears back and gun for the QB every time they’re on the field. But it takes a lot more to play in a defense where you’re going to be asked to do multiple things, including getting after the quarterback. 

If you’re going to get a guy and only ask him to rush the passer what not wait until the second or third round and get a guy like Brooks Reed, my fastest rising crush in this years draft.