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Earlier today, it was reported that the New England Patriots have placed defensive lineman Dominique Easley on injured reserve; officially ending his rookie season. Easley was drafted by the Patriots with the 29th overall pick in this year's draft and brought along questions about his health after tearing both of his ACLs in college (left 2011, right 2013).
He had knee-issues the entire season, sitting out games against the Detroit Lions and Miami Dolphins because of them. Those same issues are what now ended his year. He also missed a game against the Buffalo Bills due to a shoulder ailment.
Since Easley's rookie campaign is now over, we can ask the question: was it a success?
Based on the outcome of his season it is safe to answer with "no"; no player wants to end a year on injured reserve. Based on his draft status, and the expectations that often come along with it, it is also fair to say "no".
But that doesn't mean that Easley didn't have an on-field-impact. He has played 11 of a possible 14 games and recorded 10 tackles, one sack and one interception in the process; all while playing 262 of a possible 968 defensive snaps (27.1%). Furthermore, he has shown some versatility, playing multiple techniques and positions along the defensive line.
All those things taken into account, how would you grade Dominique Easley's rookie season?