Some Patriots thoughts on this Wednesday:
1) Seeing Devin McCourty’s retirement press conference on Tuesday was a reminder that heading into the 2023 season, the New England Patriots definitely have a big leadership void to fill on the defensive side of the football.
The long-time veteran was essentially the quarterback of the secondary, often making sure guys knew their assignments while processing each move New England’s opponents made.
McCourty’s football I.Q. was a big reason behind why he even landed with the Patriots, with Bill Belichick reflecting on his first meeting with the former Rutgers standout as he spoke on Tuesday in honor of his now-former player.