New England Patriots

Dominique Easley is finding his comfort zone in 2015

Published Jun. 17, 2015 9:14 p.m. ET

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The New England Patriots didn't get to see much from 2014 first round pick Dominique Easley last season as he recovered from a torn ACL that he suffered while playing at the University of Florida. During the Patriots Super Bowl season, he played in 11 games and recorded 10 tackles, one sack and one interception.

As he enters his second season with the Patriots, he is a year healthier and is slated to contribute much more in 2015, especially with the departure of defensive stalwart Vince Wilfork on the defensive line.

As he enters minicamp and training camp this offseason, Easley is looser. “I wasn’t that comfortable just coming from college and coming off the injury and being away from football,” Easley said after practice on Wednesday. “I’m much more comfortable now than last year.”

While he may feel more comfortable, he still feels that he isn't in top physical condition just yet.

“I feel good,” Easley said. “I don’t feel I’m where I need to be right now, but I feel like I’m going to get there.”

Easley will be one of several defensive linemen vying for a starting spot in 2015. The Patriots hope that the late first round pick can vastly improve from his rookie season and live up to his potential.

(h/t New England Sports Network)

Photo Credit: USA TODAY Sports/Steve Mitchell