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For a seventh-round pick, Brandon Deaderick has probably exceeded most expectations. After experiencing some disciplinary issues in his 2010 rookie year, Deaderick became a consistent contributor in 2011 and 2012 as a reserve and spot starter defensive lineman.

From his stats on ProFootballFocus.com, it is a wonder how Deaderick elevated to the top interior defensive tackle spot next to Vince Wilfork in 2012. In the past two seasons, Deaderick has had three above-average performances, and 11 negative ones, by PFF's grading metrics. His total grades for the past two seasons is minus-16.1.

Still Deaderick managed to play 41.5 percent of the snaps of the 16 games he suited up for in 2012, most likely because his pass-rushing skills, though average, are slightly better than Kyle Love's.

Deaderick is entering the last year of his deal and—with defensive tackle as the primary spot I believe the Patriots must upgrade—he'll need to elevate his game to another level to have a future with the team.

He'll likely find himself in the battle of his life for a roster spot coming out of training camp, because if the Patriots are relying on him for an interior pass rush on base downs, they're in major trouble.