In terms of role and eventual production, defensive lineman Chase Winovich, who the Patriots selected in the third round, will likely be asked to help replace the production and pass-rushing ability lost when Trey Flowers departed. In terms of personality, he might naturally replace some of the fun Rob Gronkowski brought to New England.

Michigan defensive coordinator Don Brown likes players who play like their hair is on fire. Winovich has plenty of hair and plenty of fire and was a favorite of Brown’s.

Originally a tight end who was buried on Michigan’s depth chart Winovich switched to defense and thrived.

“They’re getting a good player,” said Brown, a Spencer native, who coached at UMass, UConn and Boston College before joining Jim Harbaugh at Michigan. “He’s really durable and hates to come out. We played Purdue in 2017 and it was 90+ (degrees) at game time. You couldn’t get him to come out of there. He’s one of those guys. He just plays.”

Brown thought Winovich, who turned 24 last week, could help the Patriots.

“They lost Trey Flowers and (Winovich) has an uncanny ability to rush the passer,” said Brown, who also compared him to T.J. Watt. “He’s got a good touch and go move. He can turn the corner on you.”

Don Brown has led a top-three defense nationally at Michigan over the last three seasons.Mike Mulholland | MLive.com

Brown said because Winovich has only been a starter on defense for two years, his skills and instincts are still sharpening.

“I think his upside it still there. He was a full-time starter really for the last two years. So he’s still working on developing his toolbox and his pass-rush repertoire. He’s a really accomplished run defender,” Brown said. “The pros are starting to evolve to the spread run game where the quarterback is involved. He’s an excellent run defender. He really gets it, being able to play the zone read off the quarterback. He’s still getting better. He’s going to get bigger.”

In addition to his production (69 tackles, 5 sacks as a senior), Winovich gained a reputation for his long hair and big personality. Brown didn’t get into specifics, but didn’t dispute either.

“He’s wacked. I’ll leave it alone. He might have led the country in TFL dances,” Brown said chuckling. “He’s completely nuts, but he’s a great kid and really fun to be around. He loves that hair.”

Follow MassLive sports columnist Matt Vautour on Twitter at @MattVautour424.