The New England Patriots lost valuable linebacker Kyle Van Noy in free agency to the Miami Dolphins, so Bill Belichick and Co. went out and drafted a linebacker who has been compared to the Super Bowl Champion.
With the No. 87 pick in the draft, the Patriots selected Alabama linebacker, Anfernee Jennings. Here is a look at some of Jennings’ highlights:
Anfernee Jennings’ Highlights
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Anfernee Jennings’ 2019 College Stats
- Tackles – 45
- Tackles for Loss – 12.5
- Sacks – 8
- Forced Fumbles – 1
- Interceptions – 1
The Nick Saban Connection
Belichick’s college mini-me has to be Alabama head coach Nick Saban. The two legends look for the same kinds of defensive players, and that’s a big reason why it seems the Patriots often welcome former Crimson Tide players to the roster.
Jennings will be the third former Alabama player on the 2020 roster along with Damien Harris, and Dont’a Hightower.
Patriots Looked to Shore Up its Defense in a Major Way
In addition to drafting Jennings, the Patriots also selected small-school superstar Kyle Dugger with the No. 37 pick. In the second round, the Patriots took Michigan pass rusher Josh Uche at No. 60. By using its three-highest selections to address the defense, it was clear where Bill Belichick felt his team needed the most help.
Can Jennings Start From Day 1?
Van Noy played an integral role for the Patriots and stayed on the field a great deal. While Jennings may have some similarities, he is still a rookie who could experience some growing pains as he gets acclimated to the NFL.
That said, aside from Shilique Calhoun and Uche, there might not be a stronger contender than Jennings amongst what is suddenly a more interesting group of linebackers and edge rushers.
The edge Jennings could have over Uche is that he is more balanced overall as a defender. While he may not have the potential to become a double-digit sack guy for multiple years, it also appears his floor is higher than Uche’s at this time.
If he can get his legs underneath him and grasp the system quickly, that’ll give him a leg up for playing time during his rookie season.
Twitter Reaction to the Jennings Selection
Tua Tagovailoa (1) Jedrick Wills Jr. (1) Henry Ruggs III (1) Jerry Jeudy (1) Xavier McKinney (2) Trevon Diggs (2) Jalen Hurts, OKLA grad transfer (2) Raekwon Davis (2) Terrell Lewis (3) Anfernee Jennings (3)
The list of Alabama products to hear their names called within the first three rounds of the 2020 NFL Draft is truly impressive. Players from both sides of the ball from Saban’s program have been regarded as Top-100 prospects and will all have a good chance to have successful NFL careers.
If you’re wondering how well Jennings has bounced back from injuries and hardships in the past, he had to deal with a pretty significant injury during his sophomore season at Alabama. As indicated by Chris Mason of MassLive, Jennings bounced back with flying colors.
Damaged an artery and had a blood clot in his leg as a sophomore. Rehabbed it and was All-SEC by his senior year.
Everything about suggests he’s an NFL player ready to contribute.
Patriots Draft Versatile LB Compared To Kyle Van Noy, Highlights [WATCH]