The New England Patriots aren’t as concerned about positions as they are good defensive players, and they might have find that in versatile linebacker Marte Mapu.
When watching the tape, the versatility is the first thing that pops for Mapu, who can play linebacker, cornerback and safety. So coach Bill Belichick is going to be able to utilize him in a lot of different ways on the field.
Mapu clearly made an impact in his final year at Sacramento State when compiling 76 tackles, two interceptions and six pass deflections. His ability to make sideline-to-sideline plays is something the Patriots have been looking for in an AFC East division full of explosive offensive playmakers.
Mapu’s name didn’t really pop on the draft board, but he could be one of those hidden gems that turns into a major contributor for the Patriots. Belichick hit a home run in the third and fourth rounds of the 2022 draft by selecting Marcus Jones and Jack Jones.
Here’s to hoping the same is the case with Mapu, especially with the Patriots opting to pick him over adding more firepower to help fix their broken offense.
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