This is really the first year in recent memory that the Patriots have had so many positions in question on the defensive side of the ball heading into the season. The line is set, but after that, there aren't many guarantees (even for guys like Tedy Bruschi, who will likely remain a starter but is expected to play a substantially reduced role). Brandon Meriweather is said to be pushing James Sanders for the starting free safety spot (and is also getting some play at corner), and both corner positions look like they're essentially up for grabs. As we're just a day away from the Pats' first preseason exhibition (Thursday the 7th against the Ravens), let's take a look at our projected starting defense (in the Base 3-4), factoring in all FA signings and draft choices.

Left Defensive End - Ty Warren
Right Defensive End - Richard Seymour
Nose Tackle - Vince Wilfork
Outside Linebacker - Adalius Thomas
Outside Linebacker - Mike Vrabel
Inside Linebacker - Jerod Mayo
Inside Linebacker - Tedy Bruschi
Strong Safety - Rodney Harrison
Free Safety - James Sanders
Left Cornerback - Fernando Bryant
Right Cornerback - Ellis Hobbs

Warren, Seymour (who's said to be healthier than at any point over the past two seasons), Wilfork, Thomas, Vrabel (who was recently taken off the PUP list) and Harrison are set as the starters at their respective positions; after that, the fun begins. Jerod Mayo apparently has the early edge over 5-year vet Victor Hobson at starting alongside Bruschi, with SS Tank Williams also getting reps at ILB with the first team during camp (mostly for depth reasons). Hobson is expected to take on a larger role as the season progresses and he learns the defense, but for now, it looks like it'll be Mayo and Bruschi starting games at ILB. Sanders gets the early edge at FS due to the fact that he's the incumbent, but Meriweather is really making it something of a position battle. Hobbs spent time as a starter last year and knows the defense better than any of the other CB options, while Bryant gets the nod because he's a veteran of 9 seasons and had a relatively solid season with the Lions last year. Terrence Wheatley, Lewis Sanders and Jason Webster should all see time at corner (with the possibility of one or more getting starts next year) and in nickel packages, as well.

For comprehensive - and sometimes contradictory - Patriots depth charts, check here, here and here.