"With the amount of money the Patriots spent on defensive players in free agency, the expectation has been that they will prove to be worth the investment, especially since they decided to mostly skip signing offensive help instead. For the most part, the defenders have proven to be exactly what the roster needed, with Harold Landry III and Milton Williams among the most impressive, as the duo has propelled the team into the No. 1 spot."
"Another free agent signing, however, has done the complete opposite, with an underwhelming and often costly performance in back-to-back games to start the year. Robert Spillane, a highly regarded linebacker whom the Raiders were devastated to see walk in free agency, has been far from what the Patriots need defensively. It's a disappointing development, considering he was named a captain for the season, and his weaknesses need to be dealt with as soon as possible, or the team risks further problems moving forward."
"The defensive line has been mostly stout for the Patriots thus far, but the linebacker room has been perhaps the most problematic. Spillane and returning Christian Elliss have been the worst of the group, as they lead not only the team but the NFL in missed tackles through the first two weeks of the season."
The Patriots invested heavily in defensive free agents, and their pass rush has delivered early results led by Harold Landry III and Milton Williams. The team ranks first in sacks after two weeks, providing a strong front. Conversely, the linebacker group has struggled, with Robert Spillane and Christian Elliss leading the team and the NFL in missed tackles. Spillane's play has been underwhelming and costly in consecutive games, allowing opponents to run effectively and exploit the middle of the field. The linebacker issues need immediate attention to prevent ongoing defensive breakdowns and further problems down the road.
Read at Musket Fire
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