Ballhawk Defender Snags Invite to Patriots’ Rookie Camp

The New England Patriots have been the talk around the NFL following an impressive 2024 draft showing. The Patriots left Detroit with eight promising rookies who are looking to help the team find success in the post-Bill Belichick era, led by high-potential names like Ja'Lynn Polk and, of course, new franchise quarterback Drake Maye.

It won't be much longer before New England fans have a better idea of how this year's rookie class looks. After all, the Patriots are holding their annual rookie minicamp at Gillette Stadium on May 10 and 11, putting the latest Pats' latest draftees — as well as undrafted free agent signings and invitees — through a series of workouts and drills.

As of Wednesday, it looks like another undrafted rookie will be entering the mixing.

Patriots News: MTSU's Teldrick Ross Invited to Rookie Camp

According to The Draft Network's Justin Melo, Middle Tennessee State defensive back Teldrick Ross has been invited to the Patriots' 2024 rookie minicamp.

The Patriots were the 10th-worst team in coverage last season, per Pro Football Focus. In other words, it makes a ton of sense that they'd add someone with Ross' abilities to the mix this offseason.

After his first two years with the Blue Raiders were uneventful, to say the least, Ross took his game to the next level beginning in 2020. Since then, the Macon, GA native has amassed 147 solo tackles, 37 broken-up passes, and three interceptions — including a 44-yard Pick-6 — with one forced fumble.

Another thing that stands out about the underrated ballhawk is his versatility. Ross has experience playing both cornerback and safety, opening the door for how head coach Jerod Mayo could potentially use him if the former forces himself onto the roster.

Additionally, based on an earlier interview with Melo, Ross appears to be a team-first player who lets his teammates know they can rely on him, whether that's on or off the field.

"I treat people the right way both on and off the field. You can always count on me to be a trustworthy representative of the organization."

- Teldrick Ross

Considering how Marcellas Dial was the only DB whom the Patriots drafted last week, there might be a path to Ross making the roster. It'll be an uphill battle (as it is with most UDFAs), leaving time to tell if he has what it takes to bring his ballhawk skills to the NFL level.

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