Devin McCourty believes rookie Marte Mapu can ‘realistically’ get enjoying time at security

Patriots

“Realistically, he will be on the market at security for this crew, which is spectacular”

Devin McCourty’s retirement left a gap for the Patriots to fill of their secondary.

Kyle Dugger and Jabrill Peppers are each anticipated to be an enormous a part of the Patriots’ plan at security. Jalen Mills has indicated he’s open to enjoying some security as properly.

However, there’s additionally a rookie who McCourty thinks might bounce into the combination. Third-round choose Marte Mapu.

“From watching him play soccer, it appears like he can do it. …” McCourty advised Henry McKenna of Fox Sports activities. “Realistically, he will be on the market at security for this crew, which is spectacular,” McCourty mentioned.

Mapu is listed as a linebacker, however has the athleticism at 6-foot-3, 230-pounds to play security.

“I believe it goes into the evolution of the sport once you discuss guys having the ability to play a number of positions … ” Patriots defensive again Adrian Phillips mentioned of Mapu throughout OTAs. “Seeing him on the market on the sector, all of it appears snug for him. It appears like stuff that he’s seen earlier than,” mentioned Phillips. 

McKenna experiences that McCourty had a dialog with Mapu that lasted virtually 45 minutes.

“We have been stepping into truly enjoying ready and doing various things, which to me reveals that he’s absolutely invested in what he’s studying,” McCourty mentioned. “I’m wanting ahead to having the ability to form of assist him all through the season on various things that he sees and needs to debate. I advised him I’m undoubtedly prepared to assist him out.”

Mapu, who was a First-Workforce FCS All-American at Sacramento State final season, primarily performed security in faculty. He made 76 tackles in 13 video games.

“I really feel like I’ve performed in all places [since I was a kid],” Mapu mentioned. “I had my hand within the grime and all the things. I believe I’ve performed all the things.”

Patriots linebacker Matthew Judon mentioned Mapu runs like a free security, however stands extra like a linebacker or edge rusher.

“And so with [Mapu], when he comes out right here, when he places on these pads, he’s going to have to point out it,” Judon mentioned. “It’s simple to do it in shorts and shirts. However I believe he has a capability and a uniqueness to be a extremely good participant.”