Patriots' undrafted rookie that's been taking reps with starters among top players to watch in preseason opener
So now that we've gone through the offensive players to watch, let's get into the defense. And we'll also throw in special teams. Despite the team's struggles last season, the defense was a shining spot and helped the Patriots stay in many games that they should have been out of due to the offense. A […]
So now that we've gone through the offensive players to watch, let's get into the defense. And we'll also throw in special teams.
Despite the team's struggles last season, the defense was a shining spot and helped the Patriots stay in many games that they should have been out of due to the offense. A lot of those key players stayed. But they also made some important additions.
So without further ado, let's get into the top defensive players to keep an eye on during the New England Patriots first preseason game against the Carolina Panthers on Thursday.
DE Keion White
At the start of the preseason, Keion White was the lone player head coach Jerod Mayo mentioned when asked about who has surprised him so far.
"Keion has kind of taken that step forward as far as being a leader — not as much vocally, but you see him actually leading the groups and working well," Mayo said.
The defensive end is primed for a breakout Year 2 in the league, and will be key on the defensive line considering some of the other injuries and issues going on.
Cornerbacks
It's hard to choose just one cornerback to watch considering many have made some impressive plays during training camp. The most obvious one is Christian Gonzalez who got off to a solid start in 2023, but was sidelined with a season ending injury. He will be fun to watch this season, but who will be playing on the other side of him?
Marcus Jones, who is also coming back from injury, has missed some days of training camp. And that means that other players have had to step up. Alex Austin, Jonathan Jones, Azizi Hearn, Isaiah Bolden, Marco Wilson, and Mikey Victor have had some solid pass breakups during 11s along with 1-on-1s.
So let's see what they look like in a game situation.
S Dell Pettus
If there is one undrafted free agent who has a shot at making the 53-man roster, it's Pettus. He has been taking reps with the first team defense during drills at training camp, and it seems like every practice is better than the last one for the young safety.
Special Teams: K Chad Ryland
After his struggles during his rookie season, the team brought in some competition for Ryland. The kicker has been competing against veteran Joey Slye throughout training camp, and the two have traded makes and misses.
But what matters is what happens in a game. So let's see how he does.
