New England Patriots: 10 Pieces They Need To Put Around Tom Brady
Most people would agree that Tom Brady is one of the best--if not the best--quarterbacks in the NFL.
The heart and soul of the Patriots locker room, Brady has compiled an impressive list of accomplishments--three Super Bowl victories, two Super Bowl MVP's, and six pro-bowl selections--despite being drafted 199th overall in the 6th round.
Since losing the Super Bowl in 2007, however, the Patriots have lost three straight playoff games, leaving some to wonder if the Patriots dynasty is all but over.
If anyone knows how to motivate his team back into contention--it's Brady.
Unfortunately, without the necessary pieces, motivation only goes so far.
Here are the ten pieces Brady will need to restore the Patriots back to their former glory.
10. Logan Mankins
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An anchor on the Patriots offensive line since he was drafted in 2005, Logan Mankins remains a key piece to Patriots'--and Tom Brady's--success.
Allowing only one sack in 2007, the three-time pro bowl selection has started every game of his career.
Every game he wanted to, anyway.
Mankins held out in 2010, missing nine games.
If the Patriots want to continue their success, they'll need to keep Mankins happy, and by extension, Brady.
9. Matt Light
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Like Mankins, Matt Light has done exceptionally well at protecting Brady in the pocket.
After ten seasons as a Patriot, Light is entering free agency this off-season, and Belichick would be wise to resign him--especially if Mankins should sign elsewhere.
Light played in all four Super Bowls with the Patriots and is a three-time pro bowl selection.
He experience is invaluable.
Resigning him is a must to ensure their continued offensive success.
8. LaMarr Woodley
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Signing him would be difficult, but LaMarr Woodley would be an ideal fit for the Patriots' offensive line.
If Woodley were to become a free agent, his extensive playoff experience, Superbowl ring and merciless pass rush would be an asset in Foxboro.
The ideal size of an outside pass rusher--6'2" 265 pounds--Woodley is more than enough to make any lineman quiver.
If he becomes a free agent, the Patriots would be insane not to take a shot at signing this guy.
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7. Mike Pouncey
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If Light or Mankins--or both--sign elsewhere, the Patriots front office would likely be forced to draft an offensive lineman high in the draft.
Bill Belichick likes versatile players, and who better to fill the hole--so to speak--than Mike Pouncey.
Maurkice Pouncey--Mike's brother--is currently the Pittsburgh Steelers starting center, and if family is any indicator of success, Mike should make an immediate impact should he land with the Patriots.
Pouncey has the ability to play either guard or tackle, making him a highly desirable player.
6. Mike Vrabel
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Leadership is vital to a teams success.
The Patriots defense is loaded with young talent and could use the guidance of a seasoned veteran. Mike Vrabel is familiar with Belichick's schemes, and knows what it takes to produce big plays.
Vrabel--who is currently a Kansas City Chief--probably wouldn't mind being reunited with his former teammates--Tom Brady, Vince Wilfork, and Deion Branch.
A linebacker at his age shouldn't take much to lock up.
5. J.J. Watt
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Prior to this season, J.J. Watt wasn't in the discussion to be a high draft pick.
Given Winsconsin's--and Watt's--success this year, however, look for the Patriots to consider drafting this guy with their first pick.
The Patriots are in need of a pass rusher, and Watt has the potential to shine in Belichick's defense.
His 6'6", 295lb. frame gives him the ability to quickly get around slow defensive lineman, as well as chase down speedy running backs.
4. Tyrod Taylor
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The Patriots have only kept two quarterbacks on their active roster the past couple seasons, and, fortunately, it hasn't been to their detriment.
Brian Hoyer has proved to be a consistent backup, but with Brady suffering from a foot injury, having a third guy wouldn't hurt.
Tyrod Taylor displayed his explosive playmaking ability throughout his collegiate career, and given his speed, he could add another dimension to the Patriots offensive attack.
It would be a gamble, but Belihcick is all about risk.
3. Kevin Faulk
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It seems like Kevin Faulk has been a Patriot forever, and finally his time as a free agent has arrived.
With BenJarvis Green-Ellis and Danny Woodhead splitting the majority of carries this season, Faulk would be a welcome third down back--if he's healthy.
Faulk is Brady's go-to-guy when it seems there's no where to throw, and Belichick would be wise to consider resigning him for Brady's sake.
2. Richard Seymour
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Many feel it was a mistake letting Seymour go, but luckily for the Patriots he wants out of Oakland.
It would be a chance for Belichick to right a wrong, and I'm sure he--and Patriots fans--would welcome a return to Foxboro.
Seymour could act as a mentor for J.J. Watt, should the Patriots sign him, and would bring more leadership to the locker room.
He's still got some strong years left--why not finish them with the team he spent most of his career with?
1. Chad "Ochocinco" Johnson
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With Wes Welker and Deion Branch being in contract seasons, the Patriots may need another top wide receiver. They will likely bring Welker back, though it is unlikely he will provide the deep threat the Patriots need.
Johnson is one of the best wideouts in the league, and Tom Brady and the Patriots just might be what he needs to finally put up league leading statistics.
He could be Brady's go to receiver come playoff time.
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