New England Patriots linebacker Marte Mapu is one of the rookies that has been impressing early on. Mapu was a third-round draft selection, but he clearly has the skill set to be a thumper and a versatile linebacker.
He played collegiate football at Sacramento State and recorded 76 tackles, one sack and two interceptions. He was versatile at the collegiate level, and he’s showing that at OTAs by playing multiple positions.
Mapu’s role could change on a week-to-week basis, as reported by NESN.com’s Zack Cox. Phil Perry of NBC Sports Boston noted that Mapu got work at free safety on Tuesday. It seemed as though he fit nicely there.
He showed quick instincts in the defensive backfield, and it could be a preview of things to come.
Couple of interesting notes for Patriots rookies on the defensive side:
* Christian Gonzalez got early work with the regulars, primarily on the outside.
* Marte Mapu (still in a red non-contact jersey) got time at free safety. Jalen Mills, Jabrill Peppers and Kyle Dugger, too.
— Phil Perry (@PhilAPerry) June 6, 2023
Mapu is making his presence felt during this portion of OTAs. It will be interesting to see what type of roles he has on a stacked defensive unit for the Patriots.
