Kony Ealy, defensive end, New England Patriots
Ealy landed in what could be the perfect situation for him when the Carolina Panthers traded him to the New England Patriots. Already penciled in as the likely starting left defensive end, Ealy finally has a chance to prove he’s more than just a rotational guy.
In three years as a member of the Panthers, he started just 15 games. While he was marginally successful (14 sacks), it was tough to get a foothold as a starter on a team with such a deep defensive line.
Now it’s up to Ealy to prove he’s a legitimate starting-caliber defensive end. If he can’t do that, then he’ll likely find himself giving way to rookie Derek Rivers.
Furthermore, Ealy is entering a contract year. A second-round pick in 2014, he has no fifth-year option. So he’s going to be setting the mark for his worth as a free agent, which makes the opportunity he has in New England priceless.