The New England Patriots are shaking things up this year, incorporating a wave of innovation during their training camp. Defensive lineman Keion White has taken snaps at fullback during Monday's practice, a position he's never played before. In college, White built his versatility on both sides of the ball, having played tight end, but fullback is a whole new challenge for him.
"Trying new things out, just seeing where I can go, anything I can do," said White, capturing the ethos of a team willing to experiment and adapt. "Today was Day 1. I haven't even watched the film yet, so we'll see."
White’s transition to a fullback role is just one element of a broader transformation happening under new head coach Jerod Mayo and offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt. The coaching duo is spearheading changes on both sides of the ball, working within a framework that encourages adaptability and forward-thinking strategies.
With the Patriots' first preseason game looming, there's a palpable sense of urgency and anticipation in the air. The team is adjusting to a new quarterback with either Jacoby Brissett or Drake Maye poised to take the helm. This season marks a fresh start, not just for the coaching staff and White, but for the entire roster.
The Patriots are coming off a robust defensive season, a strong foundation that Mayo and Van Pelt aim to build upon. "Our goal as a unit is to be the No. 1 defense. That's always the goal, to be No. 1," White pointed out, reinforcing the high standards that the team aspires to maintain.
With the preseason opener against the Carolina Panthers scheduled for Thursday night, there’s an eagerness among the players to test their mettle against external competition. For White and his teammates, it’s about finally putting the theoretical to the test. "Going against somebody else finally," White remarked, reflecting the team's readiness to move from practice to live-action.
While the Patriots' experimentations with player roles might raise some eyebrows, it’s clear that they are committed to a philosophy of versatility and self-improvement. "Dominant player, striking with my hands... getting vertical separation and getting off the ball and making my tackles," White described his approach. It’s not just about succeeding in a new role, but excelling, proving that he can handle the switch and bring something extra to the table.
White's adaptability and the collective drive of the team reflect a deeper, underlying principle instilled by the coaching staff. "You gotta kind of ignore the noise and control what you can control, which is every day out here at practice," White noted. This focus on daily effort and improvement epitomizes the Patriots' approach as they gear up for what promises to be a season of recalibration and potential.
As they face the Panthers, all eyes will be on how these changes come to fruition on the field. The Patriots are not just adjusting to new faces and roles but also setting the stage for a season where innovation meets tradition. The anticipation is high, and the opportunity for growth and success is palpable.
"Trying new things out, just seeing where I can go, anything I can do." – Keion White