Patriots: 3 players who’ve impressed us most at training camp
By Jerry Trotta
2. Josh Uche
Josh Uche could be the next great Patriots pass rusher.
There’s no telling how (or if) the Patriots will be able to overcome the loss of edge rushers Jamie Collins and Kyle Van Noy, both of whom departed in free agency this offseason and combined to record over 130 tackles, 13.5 sacks and 25 QB hits in 2019.
However, the latest buzz suggests that Josh Uche could go a long way in helping New England’s pass rush remain in the elite conversation. That’s a lot of pressure to put on a rookie, but the Michigan product’s emergence over the last few weeks suggests he’s up to the challenge.
Uche, who was selected in the second-round (No. 60 overall) of the 2020 Draft, has the required athleticism to fill the void that Collins and Van Noy left in their wake. Jim Harbaugh couldn’t figure out how to utilize him, but leave that for legend Bill Belichick.
Though the Wolverines failed to find a consistent position for him, it’s clear the Patriots view him as a player who can wreak immense havoc as an outside linebacker/edge rusher. He’s already been getting to Cam Newton (and into the backfield) in camp. Expect a big rookie campaign from the 21-year-old stud, who will have a big role come Week 1.