Cover32: New England Patriots players set to break out in the second-half of the season | New England Patriots

New England Patriots players set to break out in the second-half of the season | New England Patriots

The New England Patriots sit at 7-2 in first place in the AFC East and would be the top seed in the AFC if the playoffs started today. As the Patriots prepare for a grueling second half schedule, the team is in position to continue their hot stretch as they’ve won five consecutive games after a 2-2 start. To continue their winning ways, however, New England has to continue to get contributions from players not expected to contribute early on in the season.



Wide receiver Brandon LaFell, after no receptions in the first two games of the season, has come on strong as a top target for Tom Brady. Young linebackers Dont’a Hightower and Jamie Collins have stepped up in their third and second seasons, respectively, to take on the multi-faceted roles required in the Bill Belichick defense as they rush the passer, cover tight ends and running backs, and stick their nose into gaps to stuff the run.



Here are some other players that have not made a big impact in the first half of the season who may be in position to make a significant and surprising impact for the Patriots in their final seven games:

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