Patriots rookie Marte Mapu already ‘appears snug’ at linebacker and security

Patriots

Mapu stood out throughout Friday’s OTA session with an interception and a go breakup.

Marte Mapu beat Matt Sokol to the spot and snatched the ball, intercepting a brief go from backup quarterback Bailey Zappe.

It was simply one of many performs the third-round decide from Sacramento State made throughout OTAs Friday as he flexed his versatility. Mapu additionally broke up a go meant for newly-signed receiver Ed Lee.

Defensive again Adrian Phillips says he’s seen constant progress from the rookie to date.

“He’s doing actually good,” Phillips stated. “He’s only a man that wishes to study. Whenever you speak about rookies, and guys coming in that’s the primary factor you need to see. He’s going to ask any of the questions as a result of he’s one of many guys that doesn’t need to get it unsuitable, however is just not afraid to get unsuitable. He desires to study and get higher every single day.”

Mapu was drafted as a linebacker but in addition frolicked lining up at security on Friday. He’s appeared snug at a number of spots within the Patriots’ protection, Phillips stated.

“I feel it goes into the evolution of the sport while you speak about guys having the ability to play a number of positions … seeing him on the market on the sphere, all of it appears snug for him. It appears like stuff that he’s seen earlier than,” stated Phillips.

Linebacker Jahlani Tavai stated he’s aware of Mapu by way of time spent enjoying one other sport, rugby.

“Mapu is a good child,” Tavai stated. “I really grew up enjoying rugby with him in LA, so I knew his background as quickly as he received right here. He’s doing his factor. I’m joyful that he’s a part of the crew and I’m able to see what he brings to the desk.”

Even supposing the 6-foot-3-inch, 221-pound Mapu is a bit lighter than a typical linebacker, NFL Media’s Daniel Jeremiah stated Mapu was his “favourite participant” in your complete 2023 draft class.

“He’s so fluid and instinctive and simply makes performs,” Jeremiah stated throughout NFL Community’s draft protection. “He’s what the trendy linebacker appears like within the NFL proper now … He can run, cowl and blitz. The whole lot you need in a linebacker proper now.”