Recent Top Patriots Pick Has Reportedly 'Taken Step Forward' as Leader

In his first pro season in 2023, Keion White suited up for 16 of the Patriots 17 games. He recorded 26 tackles, 3 tackles for loss, and 1 sack on 5 quarterback hits. Obviously, New England and new defensive coordinator DeMarcus Covington will be looking for him to take the next step in his production heading into 2024.

In training camp, White appears to have already taken the next step in terms of his leadership. Head coach Jerod Mayo spoke to Mike Reiss of ESPN, complimenting the defensive end's leadership in team activities this summer:

"Keion has kind of taken that step forward as far as being a leader -- not as much vocally, but you see him actually leading the groups and working well."

- Patriots Head Coach Jerod Mayo

White was drafted with the 46th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft out of Georgia Tech. Interestingly, White began his collegiate career as a tight end at Old Dominion before joining the Yellow Jackets.

Although only a second-year player, White used both a redshirt year and the NCAA's extra season of eligibility due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Subsequently, the 25-year-old White is four years older than Christian Gonzalez, New England's first round selection in the same draft. Experience wise, he might be on the younger side, but evidently his age is apparent in the leadership role that he has commanded in his second season.

The Patriots have an impressive young core on defense with the likes of Christian Gonzalez, Christian Barmore, Kyle Dugger, Josh Uche, and Ja'Whaun Bentley. Despite a 4-13 season in 2023, that core was a major reason why New England ranked sixth in the NFL in opponent yards per game.

The Patriots preseason opener is quickly approaching, as they will welcome the Carolina Panthers to Gillette Stadium on Aug. 8. Soon enough, Patriots fans will see if White's next step as a leader shows up on the stat sheet as well.

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