New England Patriots - NESN.com
The New England Patriots don’t have many weaknesses on their roster, but Boston Sports Journal’s Mike Giardi believes the pass rush could use some help.
“Consistent pass rush is the biggest weakness,” Giardi said Friday on “WEEI Afternoons.” “Some of the guys have decent individual numbers — look at some of the pressures and things of that nature. Still, as much as I like the way the interior has played, even not just the two big guys (Milton Williams and Christian Barmore), but then Khyiris Tonga, Joshua Farme and even Cory Durden.
“I think Mike (Vrabel) even pushed at this a little bit; we still need more there, as they aren’t affecting the quarterback as much as they need to be.”
The Patriots recorded 19 sacks in the first eight games. But they managed to bring down Cleveland Browns quarterback Dillon Gabriel once in Week 8, which was concerning. According to Pro Football Focus, the Browns have the lowest-ranked pass-blocking offensive line, which means the Patriots should’ve capitalized a little more.
With the NFL trade deadline approaching Tuesday, the Patriots could upgrade their pass rush for the second half of the season and a potential playoff run.
