The Patriots typical inside linebacker is a larger throwback body type that brings a thump to the second level of Bill Belichick's defense.
There will always be a role on Belichick's defense for linebackers who are 250-plus pounds and can fill a gap like a defensive lineman or stand up a lead blocker. However, New England's team speed at the second level of the defense is something they've been trying to improve.
The Patriots are deploying more hybrid safeties like Kyle Dugger, Adrian Phillips, and Jabrill Peppers instead of their bigger linebackers in obvious passing situations. Plus, they signed more athletic players, such as Mack Wilson and Raekwon McMillan, with evolution in mind.