Can Cre’Von LeBlanc Make The New England Patriots Roster?

The New England Patriots are expected to have one of the most stout defenses in the NFL in 2016. They feature impact players such as Jamie Collins, Dont’a Hightower, Jabaal Sheard, Devin McCourty and Malcolm Butler.

Related Story: 30 Greatest Defenders of All-Time

The staple of Bill Belichick teams, however, is building quality depth. There is room for that depth at cornerback, and the Patriots have multiple candidates fighting for likely one spot. One player who has stood out throughout Training Camp and the preseason has been underrated rookie Cre’Von LeBlanc.

LeBlanc, an underrated cornerback from Florida Atlantic, is battling fellow underrated rookie Jonathan Jones and second year player Darryl Roberts for one likely spot on the roster – but has shined in his opportunities and should have the edge to make the roster.

He stands just 5-11 and 190 pounds, but has a muscular build and a stout frame. This allows him to play more aggressive at the line of scrimmage than many corners his size. His tenacious style is complemented with fluid hips and solid footwork. He uses all of these with very good recovery speed to make an impact when he is on the field.

LeBlanc has shown some versatility in training camp by playing both inside and outside. His frame and quickness ideally make him a slot cornerback. This will help his chances of making the roster – especially if Justin Coleman continues to struggle in the slot. He moves from sideline to sideline quite well, and has the speed to stay with nearly any slot receiver.

This skill set was on display in arguably the best play of the NFL preseason. In a matchup with the Saints, LeBlanc was in coverage in the red zone against R.J. Harris. Harris attempted to run a back-shoulder route in the end zone, but LeBlanc’s instincts kept him in great position and make a highlight-reel, one-handed interception.

This one play was the culmination of a very good training camp in which LeBlanc showed good coverage skills. He is likely not going to see the field with Butler, Logan Ryan, Cyrus Jones and Justin Coleman ahead of him. He has shown that he has the skills advantage over Jones and Roberts, which should help him make the roster.

must read: Patriots Acquire Barkevious Mingo From Browns

It is going to be a very tough roster to crack, but with his skills and overall work through training camp, Cre’Von LeBlanc should be a near lock to make the 53-man roster of the New England Patriots.