Patriots linebacker Anfernee Jennings making some noise on defense

Don’t look now, but Christian Barmore isn’t the only young defensive player out of Alabama ready to make an impact on the New England Patriots defense, a forgotten 2020 third-round pick is showing he is ready to make an impact as well.

After spending his entire 2021 season on injured reserve, Anfernee Jennings is primed to make some noise in that Patriots defensive front seven and it is something Bill Belichick and crew need on that side of the ball especially since Dont’a Hightower is apparently not walking through that door…at least for now.

Entering his rookie season as a potential steal in that 202 NFL Draft, Jennings didn’t have much of an opportunity to display his talent as an edge rushing linebacker with good recognition skills.

Anfernee Jennings fits the mold of past New England Patriots outside linebackers

Jennings also has the type of body style that fits that prototypical linebacker style the Patriots had in Kyle Van Noy, but he projects to be a better run stopper than Van Noy.  As one of the bright spots so far this preseason, the Patriots young linebacker is out to prove he’s the real deal and ready to take off as a contributor on defense.

"“The 2020 season didn’t define me, didn’t define my playing ability,” Jennings said on the “1st and Foxborough” podcast.  “I just continue to get better regardless of what anyone may think.  I always stay working and now just finally get an opportunity to be healthy and come out here and contribute.  That’s all I was looking forward to.”"

Although a disappointing start to his career, the progression of Jennings as a third-round pick is not all that unfamiliar.  Both Trey Flowers and Deatrich Wise Jr, had similar starts to their career.  Flowers turned out to be a beast along the defensive line and Wise, the player Jennings is pushing for a starting role opposite Matt Judon, has become a solid contributor.

Is Jennings about take a similar path?

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His play so far this preseason is certainly putting him in position.  Jennings also exhibits the one trait Belichick loves in his defensive players…versatility.

"“I pride myself on being able to be versatile and do a lot of different things…and being a smart football player,” He continued.  “I’m eager to learn something new every day and continue to get better.  It shows.”"

Along with young linebackers like Josh Uche, Cameron McGrone and Ronnie Perkins, Jennings is one of the players who must take a major leap this season for that New England Patriots defense to be a better defense than some around the league may think.

And while Belichick didn’t address needs at linebacker in the 2022 NFL Draft or in free agency, those players above are probably reasons wise.  There is a lot of talent there and each of those players, especially Jennings will get the opportunity to showcase their talent.

Folks, the New England Patriots defense could have another solid young defensive player on the rise.