Just a quick look at the biggest questions the Patriots have this offseason.  Their biggest problem last year was defense, especially on third down and in the red zone. In addition to the two defensive backs they drafted last year, Wilhite and Wheatley, they’ve signed Leigh Bodden and Shawn Springs, and drafted Darius Butler and Pat Chung.  Between these 6 guys, they should have an improved defensive backfield, but exactly how it will stack up and how they’ll perform is still a question. The next question on defense is at linebacker.  At inside linebacker, Tedy Bruschi has lost a step, and they may need Gary Guyton or someone else to step into that role more alongside Jerod Mayo.  At ouside linebacker, they need more pass rush, which can be hard with Mike Vrabel gone.  Right now the top prospects opposite Adalius Thomas appear to be Pierre Woods or Tully Banta-Cain.  I still have hopes for Shawn Crable if he ever comes of PUP.  But they may need to trade for someone.

On offense, the Patriots should be improved with the return of Tom Brady.  The other area that’s been greatly upgraded is tight end, with the addition of Chris Baker and Alex Smith.  The Patriots lost Jabar Gaffney in free agency and look to fill in his WR spot with either Joey Galloway or Greg Lewis, which should be interesting.  Finally, I still worry about the Patriots offensive line. It’s largely the same as it was in the Super Bowl when they allowed a lot of pressure on Brady, and last year when they gave up a lot of sacks on Cassel. One spot to watch is rookie Sebastian Vollmer, who can step in at either tackle spot.