Player Name: DE/DT Gerard Warren
Experience: 9 Years in the NFL, FA Acquisition this off-season by the New England Patriots
Past Role: In all of his stints with his prior teams, Warren was utilized as a 4-3 Defensive Tackle, which translates well to the 3-4 Defensive End spot. He has never been a sack monster, but he has the ability to apply pressure and get near the opposing quarterback. He has great size for a 3-4 DE, standing at 6-4, 300 lbs, but he is unproven in the 3-4 defense.
Recently, he has been mediocre, if not "bad", against the run, but has provided solid defense when rushing the quarterback.
Predicted Role: Judging by Warren's strengths, he won't be an every down defensive end for the Patriots. His versatility will allow him to remain on the field for both the 3-4 and 4-3 strategies, but the Patriots need someone who can stop the run from the RDE position. Warren will be a rotational player in the defense.
Predicted Season Numbers: 5 Starts, 16 Games Played. 30 Tackles, 3 Sacks, 1 Forced Fumble, 1 Pass Defended
Predicted Depth Chart: #2 RDE
Summary: Warren will beat out fellow FA Damione Lewis for one of the final defensive line spots on the roster. I believe that Lewis doesn't really fit in at defensive end and the defensive tackle is filled up with other players like Vince Wilfork, Mike Wright, Ron Brace and Myron Pryor. Warren makes the roster due to his potential as the 3-4 end. Look for Warren to provide able depth at the position while a younger player, like Pryor, Brace or even one of the 7th round draft picks, Brandon Deaderick or Kade Weston, emerges as an able, every down player.