New England Patriots: Ranking team’s top 5 defenders pre-training camp
4. Kyle Van Noy
When it comes to dependable, versatile and smart football players, New England Patriots linebacker Kyle Van Noy jumps to the top of the list.
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In what has become one of Bill Belichick’s best trades, Van Noy has not only stepped up as one of the team’s most reliable defensive players, he has become the team’s vocal leader as well.
Overall, Kyle Van Noy is not the most athletic linebacker and could even be undersized, but he has a knack for making big plays against the run and in passing situations with his ability to rush the passer. Those attributes shined in the team’s 13-3 victory over the Los Angeles Rams in Super Bowl LIII.
Now a two-time Super Bowl champion, Van Noy has proved all the doubters wrong and has worked his way to one of the team’s most valuable players on the defensive side of the ball because of everything he brings to the team.
If you don’t believe me, check out what Belichick said about Kyle Van Noy back in May, via NESN.
"“He’s been very durable, dependable, he’s a smart football player, he’s versatile. He can do a lot of different things defensively, in the running game, in the passing game and in the kicking game. So, he’s got a good skillset and is a smart player with experience and can fill a lot of different roles for us. It’s hard to find players like that. He’s been a valuable guy for us.”"
That value will roll into 2019 as the strength of the team has shifted to the defensive side of the ball.