ALLEN PARK, Michigan — Odds are the Patriots who see the most time on Thursday night are players you don't know much about.
In fact, some of the names who impress you most may be names you've only seen once or twice before. They'll be guys who see third- and fourth-team reps during practices, who get a lot of playing time in exhibition contests to help preserve the regulars.
For instance, I wouldn't be shocked to see undrafted rookie corner D'Angelo Ross have a nice game Thursday night. He's been rock-solid in the reps he's received, but he's way down the depth chart at a talented position group. He's someone with whom only the most hardcore Patriots fans would have any familiarity.
Putting those names aside for a second, here are five names that might be considered middle-class Patriots. They're guys you already know. But they're guys you'll want to know more about as soon as the clock strikes zero at Ford Field on Thursday night.