Patriots Gridiron News: Vincent Valentine Continues Improvement

New England Patriots rookie defensive tackle Vincent Valentine may see an increased role due to the pending suspension of Alan Branch.

Vincent Valentine continues to grow in the New England Patriots defense. The rookie defensive tackle is coming off a strong performance against the San Francisco 49ers and may see his role in creased with the pending four-game suspension of veteran defensive tackle Alan Branch.

Valentine, who played 18 snaps in the 30-17 victory over San Francisco, is earning that playing time because of the continued improvement he has shown since training camp. Patriots head coach Bill Belichick certainly likes what he sees, especially his performance a week ago.

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"“I thought he did a good job,” Belichick said via NESN. “I’d say he has good plays every week and there are plays that he could have played better on in the games that he’s played. He’s definitely, I’d say, an improving player.“I don’t know, but it’s headed in the right direction, and he’s certainly had some positive plays I’d say pretty much in every game. There might have been a couple more last week, but I’d say it’s trending the right way.”"

Valentine’s improvement and conditioning is standing out because of the lack of depth the team has at the defensive tackle position. If Branch does indeed serve his suspension, a player like Valentine would see his snaps increased. That’s where conditioning comes in. Standing at over 300 pounds, the third-round pick hasn’t had an issue with holding up on the field.

"“From a conditioning standpoint?” Belichick said. “Yeah, I don’t think that’s an issue.”"

Rob Gronkowski: Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski has made the trip to New Jersey in advance of Sunday’s matchup against the New York Jets. The big tight end is reported to be a “true game time decision” which contradicts reports earlier in the week that Gronkowski would not play due to the chest injury suffered in the game against the Seahawks.

Cyrus Jones out: Per a report by WEEI, rookie cornerback Cyrus Jones has been downgraded to out for Sunday’s game.

The second-round draft pick missed Friday’s practice due to an illness and is still battle that same illness. Jones hasn’t had the kind of rookie season he hoped to have and has already missed games this season due to issues surrounding his performance (or lack of performance) on the field.

Next: New England Patriots Morning Thoughts: Jets Game Thoughts

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