Editor’s Note: LWOS is pleased to bring you Connor Fulton’s new featured column. Football Numbers will be a look at the the important numbers for NFL teams, and what they mean for that team going forward. We hope you enjoy it.
New England Patriots Offseason
127
The number of total receptions of all 2013 Patriots receivers that are free agents this offseason. Julian Edelman’s 105 catches make up the bulk of this figure. Re-signing the trusty Edelman, who is also one of the league’s top punt returners, is a top priority for the Pats.
29
Combined number of games played by offensive linemen Ryan Wendell and Will Svitek. Wendell has started every game at center for the Pats for the past two seasons, so losing him would be a big blow. New England’s offensive line will already be hurt by the loss of long-time offensive line coach Dante Scarnecchia; it is crucial that the Pats retain these two guys.
400
The amount of passing yards the New England defense gave up in the AFC Championship game. The bulk of this yardage came after star corner Aqib Talib exited the game with a hip injury—it was clear that the secondary wasn’t nearly as effective in his absence. Talib’s rare combination of size, speed, coverage ability, and ball skills make him a top option for every team in need of a cornerback this offseason, so the Pats must act quickly and hold on to him.
2,145
The amount of rushing yards the Patriots’ defense surrendered in the 2013 season, which ranked 30th in the league. The main reason behind the underachievement of the Pats’ front seven was the loss of Vince Wilfork, who tore his ACL early in the year against the Falcons. While Wilfork will be back for the 2014 season, he is 32 years of age and won’t be getting any younger, so it would be prudent of the Patriots to nab another nose tackle, either through the draft or free agency.
5’10’’
The average height of New England cornerbacks not named Aqib Talib. In the Super Bowl, the Seattle Seahawks proved that having big, physical corners is the best way to shut down a top NFL offense, so the Patriots should think about getting a taller cornerback to at least have as an option in their secondary. The Bears’ Charles Tillman (6’2’’) comes to mind, and it is likely that the Pats could sign him for a bargain given his age of 32.
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