The Patriots' offensive line had some cause for concern at the end of last season.
The Patriots' offensive line had some cause for concern at the end of last season.Danielle Parhizkaran/Globe Staff
As we eagerly await the start of OTAs, let’s attempt a way-too-early ranking of the Patriots’ position groups, in order of least to most concerning . . .
Quarterback
After emerging as one of the NFL’s formidable young quarterbacks last season, Drake Maye is the primary reason why there is so much optimism surrounding the Patriots. If he can continue his promising trajectory, then the future of the organization is in excellent hands.
Cornerback
The Patriots have a lockdown cornerback in Christian Gonzalez as well as a strong slot cornerback in Marcus Jones. Their second perimeter player, Carlton Davis, also was effective last year, despite leading the team in penalties. This group, when healthy, should be among the league’s best. Charles Woods stepped up as the top backup last year, and will compete with newly signed Kindle Vildor and rookie Karon Prunty to maintain that role this season.
Safety
The projected starting safety duo of Kevin Byard and Craig Woodson is one of the defense’s biggest strengths. Byard has established a reputation for his ability to force takeaways, while Woodson should be able to build off his encouraging rookie year. Both players are used to heavy workloads, as Byard played 99.8 percent of Chicago’s defensive snaps last year and Woodson played 93.2 percent of New England’s. Should either have to miss time, though, depth is a concern. Next up would be Dell Pettus or Mike Brown, who are core special teamers.
Wide receiver
If the Patriots trade for A.J. Brown after June 1, as expected, then he will immediately elevate this group. Romeo Doubs was a solid signing, but is he alone enough? The Patriots also are optimistic about Kyle Williams taking a Year 2 leap, but what is a realistic uptick in production? Brown would round out the room well, serving as a traditional No. 1 option. If the Patriots don’t trade for him, it’s fair to question whether they have enough top-end offensive firepower.
Defensive tackle
Milton Williams currently carries New England’s highest salary cap number ($28.5 million), while Christian Barmore carries the fourth highest ($17.1 million). Although Williams lived up to his rich contract in his first year with the Patriots, Barmore has been more inconsistent. This group also lost nose tackle Khyiris Tonga, a key part of their run-stuffing unit. It looks as though Cory Durden, who flashed at points last season, will step into that role. Joshua Farmer, drafted in the fourth round last year, could also be the in mix.
The Patriots have a strong defensive tackle duo in Milton Williams (center) and Christian Barmore (left).
The Patriots have a strong defensive tackle duo in Milton Williams (center) and Christian Barmore (left).Danielle Parhizkaran/Globe Staff
Running back
Improving the running game was a top priority for the Patriots, as they signed fullback Reggie Gilliam and run-blocking tight end Julian Hill. Rhamondre Stevenson and TreVeyon Henderson will return as a strong tandem, with hopes of establishing better consistency. Terrell Jennings, Lan Larison, seventh-round pick Jam Miller, and undrafted rookie Myles Montgomery will vie for the third spot in the rotation. Gilliam also expressed confidence in his ability to contribute as a pass catcher.
Tight end
This group features Hunter Henry as the top pass catcher, Hill as the run blocker, and rookie Eli Raridon as the promising young prospect. Although Raridon’s athleticism and skillset make him an exciting piece for the future, it seems unlikely he’ll take on a heavy workload as a rookie.
Linebacker
Robert Spillane will serve as a key defensive piece (and likely team captain) this year. Beyond him, however, the Patriots could probably still use additional reinforcements, especially after releasing Jack Gibbens. Christian Elliss and K.J. Britt will compete for the starting job alongside Spillane, with rookie Namdi Obiazor potentially getting in the rotation as well.
Edge rusher
This premium position was a major need for the Patriots heading into the offseason, so they signed big-bodied Dre’Mont Jones and drafted “violent” Gabe Jacas. Is that enough to revitalize their pass rush, especially after losing their sack leader K’Lavon Chaisson? And how healthy is veteran Harold Landry, who is currently set to return as a starter after declining amid a knee injury last season? There’s a pair of intriguing young prospects in Elijah Ponder and Bradyn Swinson, who could pop in Year 2, with Ponder being the more proven of the two.
Offensive line
The Patriots revamped this unit by moving Jared Wilson to his preferred position at center and signing Alijah Vera-Tucker to play left guard. But there are still plenty of questions. Can left tackle Will Campbell bounce back after a disappointing postseason? Can Vera-Tucker, who has suffered three season-ending injuries in five years, stay healthy? What about 35-year-old right tackle Morgan Moses? Is rookie tackle Caleb Lomu ready should he have to slot in? The performance of this group will obviously be crucial to the offense’s success. Among the edge rushers on New England’s schedule are T.J. Watt, Maxx Crosby, Micah Parsons, and Aidan Hutchinson. The Patriots will also face the Seahawks and Broncos, two defenses that relentlessly attacked their O-line during the postseason.
Nicole Yang can be reached at nicole.yang@globe.com. Follow her on X @nicolecyang.