Sports Illustrated has released a list of twelve potential "impact rookies" from the 2012 draft class who are "in the best spot to have immediate success" and help their teams win games - naming one player for each position. At defensive end, the article highlights Patriots' first round pick Chandler Jones."

New England will need to replace the double-digit sack production of departed free-agent end Mark Anderson, and it's unclear how much Andre Carter can still give come backing from a season-ending quadriceps injury. Jones is a natural pass rusher whom Bill Belichick will put in the right places to deliver in New England's versatile front seven. Don't be surprised if Jones leads all rookies in sacks."

Of course, we don't know yet whether or not Andre Carter will be back. But it doesn't seem out of the question, that considering the current state of pass rushing talent on the Patriots roster, that Jones will be asked to play a significant role as a rookie.