Pats Load Up on Line

The New England Patriots clearly realized they had a weakness on the defensive line.  Last year in their 3-4 scheme they started former Browns cast-off Gerard Warren most of the year.  Last year New England traded away Richard Seymour to Oakland and this offseason they’ve parted ways with Ty Warren.

So far this offseason, New England traded a late round draft pick  for oft-troubled tackle Albert Haynesworth.  This move would’ve solidified the defensive line, but after parting ways with Ty Warren the team needed to address the defensive end position.  Andre Carter announced on his Twitter page that he will be playing for the Patriots in 2011.  The former Redskins end only had 3.5 sacks last season.  He had a career high with San Francisco in 2002 registering 12.5 sacks.

Shaun Ellis had played his entire 10 year career for the New York Jets.  But, after failing to reach a new agreement with the team Ellis signed with division rival New England today.  Ellis brings tremendous physical talent to the Patriots defensive line at 6′5″ 290 pounds.  But, he also brings with him a questionable work ethic and only had 4 sacks last season.  But, like Carter he peaked early in his career and had 12.5 with the Jets in 2003.

Mark Anderson has played for the Bears and Texans in his 6 year career.  He has recorded 23.5 sacks.  He also signed with the Patriots to help at the end position and had 4 sacks for the Texans last season.