There are still a lot of unanswered concerns after Matthew Judon was traded to Atlanta this week, ending the New England Patriots’ season. What the defensive line will produce in 2024 is the biggest worry among supporters. On the defensive end of the ball, the Patriots have a good number of weapons at their disposal, but Judon was the force behind the entire team. A couple players might come up and have a fantastic year after his departure, but the pass rush group as a whole might potentially be the difference-maker. Which players, in the upcoming autumn, have the potential to become household names in the NFL?
One standout player is defensive end Keion White, who is embarking on his second year in the NFL. While his performance in 2023 was somewhat gradual as he adjusted to the professional level, he exhibited glimpses of immense potential. Notably, in the 2023 season opener against the Eagles, White showcased impressive plays and consistently pressured Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts. Standing at six-foot-five and weighing two hundred and eighty-five pounds, White possesses significant size, speed, and athleticism, hinting at the possibility of becoming a star on the Patriots’ defensive line. Reports from Patriots training camp suggest that White is poised for a breakthrough season. Known primarily as a power rusher, White utilizes his strength to establish his impact on the field.