Patriots rising LB emerging as veteran leader for the team

DeMarcus Covington comments on the growth of Patriots LB Anfernee Jennings

New England Patriots linebacker Anfernee Jennings is turning into a leader for the organization, as they look for somebody to step up at the position following big departures.

Two key pieces from last year’s linebacker group in Josh Uche and Matthew Judon are no longer with the Patriots. That has left two huge holes on defense for the team. However, Jennings appears to be stepping up to the challenge.

The Alabama product signed a three-year, $12 million contract extension with the Patriots back in March. He has recorded 39 tackles and half a sack so far this season, after recording 66 tackles a year ago.

Patriots defensive coordinator DeMarcus Covington has been impressed with Jennings both on and off the field.

“I’m seeing a player who’s growing into a leader for us.” Covington told media members.

Jennings’ emergence as a veteran leader could be extremely important. The Patriots organization is undergoing a youth movement on both sides of the ball, and Jennings could be one of the new leaders to help forge a new path to success.

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