The New England Patriots are hoping to fortify their pass rush with second-round rookie Keion White.
White was taken by the Patriots with the No. 45 pick of this year's NFL Draft, and it's possible that he may be considered a steal. ESPN believes White is the "perfect fit" for Bill Belichick and the New England defense.
"White's versatility is a positive fit for a Patriots team that will use a variety of fronts on defense," ESPN writes. "Bill Belichick can play White at defensive end, widen him as a stand-up edge or loop the rookie off the traditional New England stunts to create A-gap pressure.
"Given White's physical profile at 6-5 and 285 pounds, we could also see the Patriots bump him inside in pass-rushing situations. Coming off a 7.5-sack season, he is a matchup option for one of the league's most multiple defensive systems."
The Patriots ranked third in the NFL in sacks last season with 54, trailing only the Kansas City Chiefs and Philadelphia Eagles. There are already capable pass-rushers in the Patriots' defense in Matthew Judon and Josh Uche, which give Belichick and the rest of the defensive staff a lot of options when it comes to White's placement in the front seven.
On top of his on-field fit, White explained in his post-draft press conference that he also subscribes to the Patriots' off-field mentality as well.
“No more than before,” White told reporters via conference call when asked about any added motivation. “But, the goal is the same. No matter where you get drafted, the job is not finished … you have to put the work in.“
White is expected to put the work in and play often during his rookie season, with hopes that he can live up to this "perfect fit" claim.
More Patriots coverage from Sports Illustrated here.
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