NFL Rumors: Dominique Easley to be healthy by training camp?

Aug 31, 2013; Gainesville, FL, USA; Florida Gators defensive lineman Dominique Easley (2) tackles Toledo Rockets running back David Fluellen (22)during the first half at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

When the New England Patriots selected former Florida Gators’ defensive lineman Dominique Easley with the 29th overall pick, many were surprised.

Easley was once viewed as a potential top-10 pick, but he tore his right ACL three games into the 2013 season (he had previously torn his left ACL) and had to have surgery in October.

Several pundits believed the Patriots may opt to make a less risky pick and take someone who could make an immediate impact.

However, that still might be the case as Easley says he is healing very fast and is making good progress in his rehab.

“I’m just working to get back healthy and I’m just ready to get up there,” Easley told Zuri Berry of The Boston Glob. “I didn’t say that [I’m not 100 percent], I’m just working to get back healthy, that’s all. I’m just working. I just want to work, just get better, learn a new playbook and learn a new system.”

Easley is a very versatile player and could help aide a Patriots’ pass rush that badly needs help.

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