Patriots Looking to Reestablish an EDGE on the Boundary

In Year 2, Chase Winovich has a chance to become New England's top pass rusher. (Photo: SportingNews.com/Getty Images)

New England doesn't return any top-end experience at its EDGE positions – whether they operate as 4-3 defensive ends or 3-4 outside linebackers, which is currently unclear. Jamie Collins and Kyle Van Noy left in free agency, and Dont'a Hightower opted out of this season. So who's left.

Veterans

John Simon is the senior-most EDGE defender on the team, and he's likely the most ready to contribute. He also has less upside than numerous others, but four sacks and 44 tackles while playing fewer than 50 percent of New England's snaps in 2019 isn't too shabby.

Tashawn Bower hasn't done much since entering the league in 2017, and that's probably a telltale sign of his fate.

Shilique Calhoun played a much bigger role on special teams than defense in 2019, but the latter still wasn't negligible. He sets the edge pretty well, and he's an imposing threat up front in the kicking game.

Youth

Derek Rivers has battled injuries and inconsistent performance, and that's prevented him from seeing the field much. He played six games in 2018, and none in 2017 or 2019. There's breakout potential if the opportunity is given, but he'll be buried on the depth chart – if he even makes the cut.

Whereas Rivers has intrigue, Chase Winovich has already delivered on some of his potential. He still played a limited role (29 percent of defensive stats) as a rookie last year, he still mustered 5.5 sacks and 10 quarterback hits – both of which ranked in the top two of returning Patriots.

Rookies

Third-rounder Anfernee Jennings (Alabama) has a chance to earn more snaps than Winovich played last season, although it's also not a sure thing. Staying healthy hasn't always been easy, but it was during his final two seasons (25.5 tackles for loss in 28 games).

Rashod Berry is making a transition from tight end to EGDE. His roster odds are slim, but versatility makes him a strong practice squad candidate.