One of the more surprising aspects of the Patriots' 2024 season has been the defense's struggles after putting together another impressive year in 2023. Most of the same players are still on the roster, a few of whom were extended this offseason, making it more confusing why they are not performing at the level we've seen from them in recent years.
There is some room for excuses, however, with the loss of Matthew Judon to a trade to the Falcons in the preseason and the injuries to Christian Barmore and Ja'Whaun Bentley. Their absences have taken a huge hit on the defensive line's production, which has led to some big-time performances from opposing running backs.
That's what made their performance against the Bears last Sunday all the more fascinating. Chicago has an impressive offensive roster, loaded with top-tier wide receivers and a solid backfield led by D'Andre Swift. But they were collectively held to just 193 yards on the day, proving the defense really stepped up its game.
One secret weapon was sporadically used during the day that now has players like Davon Godchaux advocating for its more extensive incorporation.
Special teams ace Brenden Schooler.
This team loves Brenden Schooler 🤘
— Carlos Talks Pats (@LosTalksPats) November 12, 2024
(🎥 @Patriots) | #NEPats pic.twitter.com/XXT9oYJ6u8
Davon Godchaux wants to see Brenden Schooler more on defense this season
The third-year safety has already made a name for himself as one of the best special teamers in the league, and it looks like he could be on pace to earn his first Pro Bowl honors this year.
He made a few impressive plays in Week 10 against the Bears, including a third down sack with defensive end Keion White, which prompted Godchaux to suggest to the coaching staff he be used more moving forward.
Patriots DT Davon Godchaux on S/ST Brenden Schooler's performance on defense:
— Doug Kyed (@DougKyed) November 10, 2024
"He needs to be there more often, especially against fast quarterbacks. We got Josh Allen, we got a couple of them coming up. He needs to be on defense more often.”
Although he wasn't on the field for the entire game on defense, perhaps Schooler is the hidden gem the Patriots have not realized they had until now. He could be a difference-maker, just like Godchaux implied, especially as they are set to face some speedy quarterbacks over the next seven games.
There's no harm in trying it out, especially since special teamers aren't on the field that much to begin with, so there's no concern about using Schooler more than he already is.
It should be something the Patriots at least consider, even more so when Schooler has teammates publicly supporting him and essentially asking the coaching staff to use him more.