Back in February, New England Patriots inside linebackers coach Jerod Mayo admitted that the team was looking to get faster and more explosive on defense.
“You always want to get faster, especially in today’s game. That’s at all spots, not only at linebacker or defensive line or in the backend...” Mayo said during an appearance on 98.5 The Sports Hub’s Zolak & Bertrand. “Also through the draft and through free agency we’ll definitely look to get faster, look to get more explosive, and look to put more playmakers on the field.”
At the time it felt a bit surprising.