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Mack Wilson looking like one of those playmakers for the New England Patriots
In the second straight week, linebacker Mack Wilson looks like he is going to be one of those defensive playmakers for the New England Patriots.
Displaying the speed and athleticism the Patriots’ defense need on the second level of the defense, Wilson is looking like a nice addition. During his time on the field, he was flying around making plays and almost had himself an interception when he dropped back in coverage.
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Only the preseason, but the trade that sent Chase Winovich to the Cleveland Browns for Wilson has Belichick looking good. Of course, the head coach is praising what Wilson has brought to the table so far.
"“Mack has really come on through the spring and then preseason,” Belichick said of the Alabama product. “When the pads come on, he’s an explosive player, contact player, and adds speed to our team on both defense and the kicking game. Good to have him, and I think he’s getting a little more comfortable out there each day, each game with the guys he’s playing with, and the communication, things like that. He’s been a good addition.”"
In observing Mack Wilson, he looks like he fits into the scheme of what the Patriots like to do. In adding that speed, it looks like he will be a factor when it comes to covering running backs and tight ends, but also creating some havoc in the trenches.
Along with Raekwon McMillan and Josh Uche, Belichick may have a better linebacking group than most critics project them to have. If second-year linebacker Cameron McGrone also starts to emerge and Ja’Whaun Bentley flourishes in more of a leadership role, the Patriots have something to build on in the second level of their defense with smaller linebackers who like to fly around and make plays.
Wilson is setting the tone when it comes to that attribute.