New England Patriots Head Coach Bill Belichick Talks Key Rookie Usage
During an exclusive interview with Mike Tannenbaum of the 33rd Team, Bill Belichick revealed his plan for rookie cornerback, Christian Gonzalez. Back in April, the Patriots selected Christian Gonzalez as the 17th overall pick in the first round of the NFL draft. Based off draft position and need, it is fair to assume that the […]
During an exclusive interview with Mike Tannenbaum of the 33rd Team, Bill Belichick revealed his plan for rookie cornerback, Christian Gonzalez.
Back in April, the Patriots selected Christian Gonzalez as the 17th overall pick in the first round of the NFL draft. Based off draft position and need, it is fair to assume that the team expects Gonzalez to start right away and make significant a contribution in his first year. Gonzalez finished his college career having allowed a 57.4% completion percentage in coverage, coupled with a 79.8 passer rating allowed and was one of the top rated prospects at the 2023 NFL draft.
Belichick began by addressing the initial phase of the off-season and how it evolves during training camp. He stated, "In the Spring, the plan is always the same for these guys, we bring them in and let them learn how to be a professional football player and a New England Patriot. That encompasses a lot of things, how to study, how to train, how to prepare, how to learn the terminology and communicate with your teammates."
Belichick also hinted at the rookie's potential versatility, "We'll work him at a number of positions at this point in the Spring and narrow it down by the time we get to training camp." Belichick continued to build on the rookie's versatility by saying "I think there are situations where he could play inside or in the deeper parts of the field, depending on what the call is, or how the opposing offense present themselves from a gameplan structure. "
Belichick confirmed what we all suspected, "He is most likely going to be a perimeter corner." Belichick even shared some early encouraging words about the young corner, when discussing draft philosophy he said he was "glad Gonzo was there" referring to Gonzalez still being available at 17, despite being projected to go top ten by most draft analysts. Belichick followed it up with "he has been great to work with, and I look forward to getting him ready for training camp."
Featured image via Eric Canha-USA TODAY Sports
