NFL: One breakout star for each team in the 2018 season

Part of what has made the Patriots defense so tough in the past was their ability to make you one dimensional. That involved stuffing the run and forcing you to throw into complex coverages against a strong pass rush.

The problem last year was they couldn’t fulfill their first objective. Teams ran on New England consistently all year long. So it was hardly a surprise when they made their trade for former 1st round pick Danny Shelton.

He’s a big, athletic defensive tackle who eats up space in the middle, making it difficult to run at him.

Under a sharper coaching staff, it’s possible his full potential will finally be utilized with the Patriots.