2. Progression of first-round pick Jerod Mayo

Playing linebacker in the team's system is not just physically taxing, but also a major mental challenge due to the complexity of the scheme -- which is one reason the Patriots have employed one of the NFL's older linebacker corps in recent years. First-round draft choice Jerod Mayo (10th overall), though, would add a youthful boost to the group, while also contributing to the team's goal of getting faster on defense. His potential emergence at inside linebacker could allow Adalius Thomas to play in more of a pass-rushing role, which is where he's carved out his reputation as one of the game's more disruptive forces.