Depth matters. I’m not going to make the argument that it doesn’t. What I will point out is that the Patriots aren’t the lone team where depth at certain positions is a concern. It’s the reality of limited rosters. How many clubs could lose their starters at key positions and remain contenders?
Truth is, injuries would cripple most teams. Losing a top offensive lineman invites opponents to target the replacement, which affects quarterback play, which affects receivers and offensive productivity. More pressure is then put on the defense, and vice versa. The Patriots have experienced it, both as the wounded and the predator. Unlike Preseason Week 3, the regular season won’t be played with a roster of 2nd-3rd team depth players. So I’m not buying into the doomsday scenario that puts the Patriot at a worse position than the rest of the NFL.
