The 2014 New England Patriots look great on the surface, but their depth chart reveals some of the same holes that plagued them last season.
The Patriots need help at every position — including quarterback — since they have just 65 players on their roster. Patriots director of player personnel Nick Caserio said Tuesday at Gillette Stadium that the team likely will fill out most of its roster through the 2014 NFL draft and the ensuing rookie free agency.
The 2014 NFL draft finally starts Thursday at 8 p.m., meaning the Patriots are scheduled to use their 29th overall selection around 11:30 p.m., unless they trade down to acquire more picks (they currently have eight selections) or up if they feel like “their guy” won’t fall that far.
Since the top of the Patriots’ depth chart is stacked, they could address almost any position with their first selection. Some voids are bigger than others, however, including tight end, defensive tackle and safety. NESN.com ranked the Patriots’ 11 positions of need, from most dire to luxury picks.
