Patriots rookie linebacker Jerod Mayo has impressed thus far in training camp. He’s showed his versatility, going stride for stride with the speedy Kevin Faulk in pass coverage one play and blowing up the powerful Laurence Maroney on the next. John Tomase of the Boston Herald writes, “’He’s a smart player, but I can only speak for myself,’ said linebacker Pierre Woods, who knows a thing or two about being a rookie in the system. ‘You see him out there. You judge for yourself. I’ll just say that. You see him out there.’”
The Pats selected Mayo with the first-round pick they received from the San Francisco 49ers. Mayo is expected to see significant playing time this season and will inject energy into an aging linebacking corps. Mayo has been impressive on the field and has spent his fair share of time watching film. He’s developing solid relationships with teammates, including Victor Hobson, with whom he is competing for playing time. It’s no secret that the Patriots thrive on their team chemistry, especially on defense. It appears that this rookie is fitting in well, both ability-wise and personality-wise. Being in a winning situation always makes that easier, but the team has to be happy with their pick at this juncture.
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