5 New England Patriots players to watch in Week 2

Patriots Players to Watch in Week 2: Devin McCourty

This writer is the proud owner of a  Devin McCourty jersey (got it on sale as Reebok was liquidating their stock of NFL licensed apparel before Nike took over), and one of the free safety’s biggest fans. But what makes McCourty a player to watch in Week 2 is the simple fact that the free safety is due for a big game.

Look, McCourty probably won’t ever be the ball hawk he was as a rookie in 2010 when he picked off seven passes, but it’s about time that McCourty puts up a few more interceptions than he has in years pass. He’s nabbed just four passes in the past two years; compare that with 14 picks in the prior three seasons.

In Week 1, McCourty was a split second late getting over to the sideline on several throws. Look for D-Mac to shift himself laterally a tad bit quicker against the Dolphins, with an interception resulting from his improved range.

It should be remembered that on David Johnson’s big run in Week 1, it was McCourty who very nearly punched the ball out of Johnson’s hands from behind. The Rutgers product has an eye for the ball; keep an eye on him on Sunday afternoon.

Next: 2. David Andrews