A’Shawn Robinson (Detroit Lions)

A’Shawn Robinson, 24, spent his first four seasons with the Detroit Lions. He’s a reliable player who has played in 53 of 58 potential games in his career. Robinson is more of a traditional nose tackle who stops the run and carries a youthful edge.

He’s a bigger guy at 6-foot-4, 330 pounds and and he’s been under the tutelage of former Patriots defensive coordinator Matt Patricia. Fortunately for the Patriots, the former second-rounder hasn’t lived up to his potential fully in Detroit, leaving some leverage in contract negotiations.

The Patriots and Robinson could come together on a team-friendly contract that would be beneficial for the futures of both parties. Robinson is a more realistic prospect who has ties to the Patriots organization.