(Continuing a month-long series analyzing players who are on the roster bubble and where they may potentially fit in 2012.)
NAME: Trevor Scott
POSITION: Defensive end
AGE: 27
2011 STATS: 16 games (no starts), 7 total tackles -- with Raiders
INJURY STATUS: No known injuries
CHANCE OF MAKING 53-MAN ROSTER: 75%
WHY HE SHOULD MAKE IT: With Mark Anderson having signed with the Bills and Andre Carter remaining a free agent as training camp approaches, Scott has the inside track to a role as an experienced veteran and edge player. Scott had 12 sacks over his first two seasons in the NFL, and like Anderson last season, the Patriots likely hope that Scott can bounce back and be disruptive in the passing game. If rookies Chandler Jones and Jake Bequette don't make an early impact, the team could be leaning on Scott and fellow veteran Rob Ninkovich as defensive ends in their 4-3 scheme.
WHY HE SHOULD NOT MAKE IT: While Scott showed some promise as a pass-rusher earlier in his career, the effects of a knee injury in 2010 lingered into last season, when he played in every game but recorded only seven tackles and no sacks. The potential re-signing of Andre Carter, as well as the potential emergence of Jones and/or Bequette could push Scott further down the depth chart. He has experience on special teams, which could give him an edge over Jermaine Cunningham, but Scott will have to flash some ability as a pass rusher to earn a spot on the roster.
CLOSEST COMPETITION: DE Jermaine Cunningham, DE Justin Francis