Foxboro, Mass. – Ty Montgomery is ready to put last season behind him. 

The wide receiver joined the New England Patriots in March 2022, but an injury sidelined him for all but one game last year. However, he did not disappoint in that one game, recording a touchdown and finishing with three receptions for 15 yards. 

Yet, a shoulder injury ruined his first year with the Patriots, with him not stepping foot on the field for another game for the rest of the season. 

But now he is healthy and ready for his second year in New England, earning high praise from Bill Belichick prior to Tuesday's mandatory minicamp. 

"Yeah, Ty looks healthy, really healthy. He was pretty much back shortly after the end of the season in terms of recovery. But, he gives us a lot of position versatility on offense and in the kicking game," Belichick said. "He’s a smart kid, has good size, explosive speed. It’s good to have him out there; he can do a lot of different things. We look forward to having him."

Throughout all last season and during the offseason, Montgomery has placed his focus on one main thing that will help him immensely during the season. 

“My mental health,” Montgomery said. “As long as I can stay stress free, have fun. I know what I’m capable of. There’s nothing I can’t do.”

He remains positive, refusing to get down on himself after last season and instead has relied more on religion. 

“I look at last year as a blessing to try to find the silver lining,” Montgomery said. “I was able to grow closer to God. I was able to increase my prayer life, my fasting. Develop my relationship with Jesus more. And I mean, I think that’s the key to mental health, really finding something you can really believe in.”

Football is a physical sport and because of that, players are often bruised and banged up. Montgomery explained that they normally play the game hurt, but can't play through a serious injury such as the one Montgomery suffered. 

Yet those fears of injury don't cause him to step back form the game he loves. He also credits the support from his teammates. 

“Playing football, we all get hurt, we all get injured. Nobody makes a big deal about it. It’s part of the game,” Montgomery said. “There’s a great team. Great group of guys. I was still involved, coming into work everyday.”

While coming back from an injury is hard work, Montgomery didn't see it that way. 

"It's easy when you love it," Montgomery said. “I appreciate every day and every chance I get to step out here. I learned that my rookie year from the veterans around me that anytime you can play this game and get to come out healthy, it doesn't matter if it’s practice or if it’s a game, it’s a blessing.

Featured Image via Sophie Weller – A to Z Sports