Analysis: With minicamp done, putting Patriots' roster under the microscope

Wanted to empty out the notebook with a specific look at how minicamp went for 25 guys on the roster. So in alphabetical order, here’s how things broke down for them, and what might lie in store down the road.

DL Michael Bennett: It’s always tough to try and read line play when guys are in shorts and T-shirts, and when you add in the fact that he appeared to get a veterans’ rest day Thursday, it was even tougher to try and figure out where he is at this stage of the calendar. The one thing that really came through with Bennett over the three days is that guys rally to him and respect him. He will have a sizable presence in the locker room. I believe he’ll be a major part of the 2019 team, but I’ll wait until August to try and measure what sort of on-field impact he might be capable of.

LB Ja’Whaun Bentley: There are real expectations on Bentley when it comes to 2019 for a few reasons, not the least of which is because of the way he looked last summer. However, he looked rusty after missing the bulk of the 2018 season because of injury. No one at the linebacker position can afford slippage — it’s one of the deepest roster spots on the team. Right now, he’s battling with the likes of Elandon Roberts and Christian Sam for inside work, and will have to shake it off (if it is just rust) when camp comes around if he wants to be considered an every-down presence, at least to start the year.