The Patriots bolstered their defense yesterday by acquiring two-time pro bowler DE/OLB Derrick Burgessfrom the Oakland Raiders. In his two pro bowl seasons ('05 and '06) Burgess accumulated 27 sacks combined. The *Providence Journal *reports more on the details of the deal and the career highlights of the newest Patriot.
When Burgess takes the field during training camp practice, he will join the likes of the reigning defensive rookie of the year, LB Jerod Mayo. After his tremendous rookie campaign in which he started all 16 games for the Patriots, Mayo believes his contributions will continue to grow this year. He told the Boston Globe, "I just feel like I know the playbook a lot better than I did last year. Last year the older guys really had to help me out a lot, and this year I’m trying to take it on myself to help the younger guys, you know, [rookie safety Pat] Chung and those guys. So, just knowing the playbook and being able to react a lot quicker than I was able to last year.''
As the team carries on with the day-to-day grind of training camp, questions still surround the other middle linebacker spot next to Mayo. First-year Patriot Paris Lenonhopes to be the one asked to handle the responsibility. The* Boston Herald *caught up with Lenon to discuss his career prior to landing in New England this season.
Finally, today's blitz includes a Herald article about Nick Caserio, the Patriots' director of player personnel. Read about Caserio's role with the organization and how it extends further than just the front office.
