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Breaking down Patriots defensive snaps

LANDOVER, Md. -- A look at snaps played by New England Patriots defenders in a 23-6 loss to the Washington Redskins in the preseason opener:

Defensive line

Michael Buchanan -- 60 of 73

Zach Moore -- 49 of 73

Marcus Forston -- 32 of 73

Joe Vellano -- 29 of 73

Will Smith -- 25 of 73

Chris Jones -- 24 of 73

Eathyn Manumaleuna -- 23 of 73

L.T. Tuipulotu -- 22 of 73

Tommy Kelly -- 17 of 73

Vince Wilfork -- 10 of 73

Quick-hit thoughts: Valuable reps for sixth-round pick Zach Moore, who at one point rocked left tackle Morgan Moses out of his stance. Moore is a keeper based on physical traits alone, and this could be a red-shirt year for him, but Thursday night's effort sparks the thought that perhaps he'll be able to help in a niche role a bit sooner than anticipated. On Buchanan, Bill Belichick said, "Overall, he's built on his first-year experiences and knowledge and is in the process of taking a jump his second year."

Linebacker

Darius Fleming -- 51 of 73

Steve Beauharnais -- 50 of 73

James Anderson -- 45 of 73

Chris White -- 33 of 73

Deontae Skinner -- 13 of 73

Quick-hit thoughts: Anderson isn't known as a physical downhill linebacker, but his effort in that area Thursday was notable for a player entering his ninth season. Also thought Fleming did some good things on the edge when not biting on play-action.

Cornerback

Malcolm Butler -- 64 of 73

Logan Ryan -- 40 of 73

Brandon Browner -- 20 of 73

Daxton Swanson -- 20 of 73

Justin Green -- 16 of 73

Kyle Arrington -- 10 of 73

Quick-hit thoughts: Butler, an undrafted free agent from West Alabama, was arguably the Patriots' best player on the field. Time to start thinking of ways to carve out a roster spot for him if he keeps it up.

Safety

Travis Hawkins -- 34 of 73

Tavon Wilson -- 33 of 73

Patrick Chung -- 28 of 73

Nate Ebner -- 25 of 73

Duron Harmon -- 17 of 73

Shamiel Gary -- 9 of 73

Quick-hit thoughts: The tackling of Wilson and Chung was one of the silver linings.