By John Sarianides
The Patriots signed 19 undrafted free agents this week. Of the 19 players, there are five that I think could contend for a roster spot with a solid spring and training camp. Here are the five players to keep an eye on.
1. Harvey Langi, ILB, BYU: Langi has a legitmate shot of making this roster if he has a good training camp and pre-season. At 6-2 250, he is bigger, more physical version of Elandon Roberts. Langi is also versatile because he can play all three linebacker spots and play on all of the special teams. The former running back is a good athlete who can play in space and rush the passer.
The Patriots gave Langi $115,000 in guaranteed money. That tells you what they think of him and his chances to make the roster.
2. Austin Carr, WR, Northwestern: Carr will have a hard time finding a seat in the crowded receivers meeting room this fall but it certainly won’t be because of a lack of talent. Carr is a terrific route runner who has strong hands and can separate after the catch. He is your prototypical Patriots receiver in that he can play in the slot and split outside. He can also return kicks and play on special teams.
Perhaps Carr’s greatest attributes are that he is smart and versatile. Two traits Bill Belichick looks for in players.
3. Jacob Hollister, TE, Wyoming: The Patriots signed both of the Hollister twins last week. Cody is a wide receiver from Arkansas and Jacob is a tight end from Wyoming. Of the two, Jacob has the best chance of making the roster.
At 6-4 230, Hollister is more of a traditional move tight end who can line up in various spots in a formation and generate a match up. Hollister is more versatile than Matt Lengel who is currently the third tight end on the Patriots roster. He could be a good complement to Gronk and Dwayne Allen.
Hollister caught 32 passes for 515 yards and 7 touchdowns last season so there is no doubt he can be productive if given an opportunity.
4. D.J Killings, CB, Central Florida: At 6-0 185, Killings has the preferred measurables to play cornerback in today’s NFL. He can play in press coverage and play off in quarters coverage and Cover 3. Central Florida coach Scott Forst said he is one of the smartest players he has ever been around and his teammates call Killings a genius when it comes to football.
Given the Patriots questionable depth at cornerback, Killings will have a shot at making this team if he flashes some potential in mini camp and OTA’s.
5. Max Rich, OT, Harvard: Yes. That’s right. A guy from Harvard could make the Patriots roster. Rich would more than likely end up on the practice squad, but at 6-7 311, he is long, athletic and a terrific pass blocker who has good feet.
5A. Adam Butler, DT, Vanderbilt: Butler offers scheme versatility at 6-4 305. He can play the 3 technique defensive tackle in the 4-3 and the 5 technique defensive end in 30 fronts. Butler has good get off on the snap and plays with good strength and leverage at the point of attack. He is another player that could make the team and get stashed on the practice squad.
Others to Watch: Brooks Ellis, ILB, Arkansas, David Jones, CB, Richmond, Jason Thompson, FS, Utah