These Guys MUST Step Up in 2005

[Novacek84]

I've been reading a lot of opinions on who we will draft and who we have (and will) acquired during free agency but I think that if we are to be a playoff contender this season (i.e. win 10 games) the following homegrown players must start to play to their potential and make a big impact and become the core of this team.

Kalen Thornton
Dat Ngyuen
Al Johnson
Bradie James
Leonardo Carson

Let's assume that the our star players perform as expected, the free agents we've brought in perform as expected and that the rookies we draft are just average. My focus is on these guys. If they play near an all-pro level, this team will be very good this year. It's these type of guys who have made the Patriots what they are. They aren't stars but they play close to that level. I'd like to get your thoughts.