Kyle Van Noy: A Great Addition for the Patriots Future
By Duncan Day
Oct 25, 2013; Provo, UT, USA; Brigham Young Cougars linebacker Kyle Van Noy (3) attempts to rush around the block of Boise State Broncos offensive linesman Travis Averill (73) during the second half at Lavell Edwards Stadium. Brigham Young won 37-20. Mandatory Credit: Russ Isabella-USA TODAY Sports
BYU Product a Good Youngster for Pats
The 2014 NFL Draft is less than a week away, and for those New England Patriots’ fans curious about early-round selections, add BYU outside linebacker Kyle Van Noy to your list.
DraftInsider.net announced that the Patriots were among several teams interested in drafting the 23-year-old. Other squads looking at Van Noy include the Atlanta Falcons, Detroit Lions, San Diego Chargers, Jacksonville Jaguars and Baltimore Ravens.
Van Noy tallied 70 tackles, 17.5 tackles for loss, and 4 sacks as a senior. He has been characterized as a intelligent, tough linebacker with a great motor and relentless pursuit skills. He’s explosive at times and has the ability to make plays–the ideal young man to contribute alongside veteran Jerod Mayo in a defense predicated on turnovers.
Doug Kyed of NESN.com likened him to former Southern Mississippi standout Jamie Collins, due to their excellent duality in coverage and pass rushing.
Robert Kraft is looking to put together a team worthy of competing for the Super Bowl XLIX. Last year, even though Belichick and Co. found themselves in the AFC Championship, the offense lacked big-name playmakers, while Danny Amendola‘s production didn’t live up to expectations. The defense was banged up across the board: Vince Wilfork and Jerod Mayo placed on injured reserve.
And in the midst of the 2013’s shuffle, Collins display signs of great potential, namely in the divisional playoff round against the Indianapolis Colts. He picked off Andrew Luck, and his disruption in the Colt’s backfield was noticeably outstanding.
Collins wasn’t a breakout performer during the regular season, but his showing in the postseason marks a bright future.
It’s easy to see the Van Noy following in Collins footsteps, getting selected in the 2nd round and helping New England out down the 2014-15 road.
Yes, the Patriots want to capture a championship next year, as Tom Brady‘s time in Foxboro dwindles. While Van Noy is likely a future player, he could assist in the Pats’ Super Bowl designs. If either Mayo or Wilfork have trouble coming off of a season-ending torn pectoral injury, Van Noy is a much better substitute than an undrafted rookie out of a weaker NCAA school. Plus, his ability to be featured in a 4-3 or 3-4 will benefit that Belichick’s love for versatility.
Keep an eye on what the Patriots decide to do with their second-round pick, since Van Noy brings forth great value for a rookie.