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New England Patriots: Ja’Whaun Bentley having a big impact

By Sam Minton

FOXBOROUGH, MA - SEPTEMBER 09: Deshaun Watson #4 of the Houston Texans throws an incomplete pass as he is pressured by the New England Patriots defense in the end zone during the first half at Gillette Stadium on September 9, 2018 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Jim Rogash/Getty Images)
FOXBOROUGH, MA - SEPTEMBER 09: Deshaun Watson #4 of the Houston Texans throws an incomplete pass as he is pressured by the New England Patriots defense in the end zone during the first half at Gillette Stadium on September 9, 2018 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Jim Rogash/Getty Images) /
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New England Patriots rookie Ja’Whaun Bentley played a ton in Week 1 and appears to be a major part of New England’s defense.

One guy that I didn’t expect to play a major role in the New England Patriots defense was Ja’Whaun Bentley. He was a late round draft pick, who was competing against some quality linebackers that were already on the Patriots roster.

Once again I realize why I am not the head coach of the New England Patriots because Ja’Whaun Bentley played great in New England’s Week 1 victory over the Houston Texans.

Bentley had 7 total tackles and was all over the field. He was solid in coverage but is definitely a better run stopper. Bentley can lay the lumber and make some great plays to stop running backs in their tracks.

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The most interesting stat to come out of Bentley’s performance in Week 1 was his playing time. Out of any linebacker, he played the most. I definitely didn’t expect that.

Bentley has shown great maturity and communication. He worked great alongside Dont’a Hightower and looks like someone who can be a leader.

If Bentley continues to play a lot I think he could become a player to watch in the Rookie of the Year race. Now this is definitley a long shot, due to the immediate greatness of Saquon Barkley and Sam Darnold, but if he can pump out great numbers he should definitley be at least considered.

Bentley has the making to be a great linebacker. He could become a Jerod Mayo like linebacker who ends up becoming the leader of the defense. He has shown that he has the potential. Now he just needs to be consistent and continue to improve.

Next. 3 reasons to get excited about Corey Coleman. dark

Ja’Whaun Bentley is definitley someone you need to pay attention to. We could be witnessing the birth of a defensive star.

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