FoxBorough It was expected that Will Campbell would be the Patriots’ starting left tackle when training camp began. After selecting the LSU product with the fourth overall pick, it was always going to be the case.
The inclusion of third-round pick Jared Wilson in the Patriots’ starting offensive line, however, has come as a surprise.
Wilson, a starting center for Georgia, did not participate in full-team exercises this spring due to restricted playing time. The rookie has played all three interior positions with the starting lineup during training camp: left guard, center, and right guard.
His head coach is thrilled with the newbie.
I believe he picks things up quickly. According to Mike Vrabel, he has been able to pick up two positions inside: guard and center. He was, in my opinion, one of those players who, despite perhaps not playing as much in the spring, was able to fully understand it in his head and let it translate when he did get the chance to play. For a young player, he was able to demonstrate some of those skills so that he would be prepared for his chance to play.
The way the Patriots handled Wilson’s reps on Friday was shocking.
The Patriots used the same offensive line they have been utilizing this summer for the two 11-on-11 periods: Morgan Moses (right tackle), Garrett Bradbury (center), Michael Onwenu (right guard), Campbell (left tackle), and Cole Strange (left guard).
But after three snaps, Strange was replaced by Wilson, who was added to the lineup at left guard. After two snaps, he moved to center and took Bradbury’s place. Before switching to right guard and playing there for two more snaps, Wilson took Onwenu’s spot.
Wilson returned to the sidelines following six snaps at each of the three interior offensive line spots. During the first team period and the second and last 11-on-11 walkthrough period, he went through the offensive line twice.
Wilson, who was regarded as one of the top centers in the draft, is obviously liked by the Patriots and has the ability to challenge a veteran for a starting position.
Bradbury remarked, “I believe that Vrabel enjoys competition the most.” As a football squad, that is the best thing you can have. It will improve me, it will improve him, and it will improve everyone. However, I’m not sure if I’ve ever been on a line when all five players played every snap of the season. Therefore, you must also add depth. Therefore, you will win more games if you have more talented football players.
That is the purpose of training camp. Everyone must earn a position. You have to earn that role, whatever it may be. So, regardless of the quarterback I play with or the group I play with, I know I have to be on my game every single snap and every single play to bring this offense down. That’s part of the center’s appeal. I really enjoy the part where you get to take charge of things.
