Preseason preview: top-5 Patriots rookie spotlights

DL Keion White

How often is a second-round selection the fourth most exciting rookie in a team’s class? It’s not a slight towards Keion White. The New England Patriots already have a solid defensive line. But if he’s as good as his selection, White could be a force to deal with.

One way to think of White is he’s like Deatrich Wise Jr., but more athletic. Wise went from a draft curiosity into a Belichick favorite. So instead of cloning a favorite player, Belichick drafted an improved version.

Like Wise, White has the ability to play inside or outside on odd or even fronts. At 6-5 290 pounds, he obviously has the strength to hold up at the point of attack or bully blockers into the backfield. What separates White from Wise is the former Yellow Jacket has better speed and quickness. This helps White to turn the corner on the outside without being as power dependent and close in on the QB after beating the blocker(s). And White has an excellent motor, so he doesn’t quit until the play is over.

White is coming on strong during camp. Some reporters recently had him with three pressures and two would-be sacks in 11-on-11s. With Matthew Judon limited during camp, White is getting some valuable extra reps in Judon’s absence.

Wise played 73 percent of the defensive snaps last season. That was far and away the highest percentage for a Patriots defensive lineman. If White proves he’s ready to play, he can join the rotation, and Belichick could reduce Wise’s wear and tear. But it will also be fun seeing the pair on the field together.