The New England Patriots selected Alabama linebacker Anfernee Jennings with the 87th overall pick and in turn reloaded the linebacker position. The organization needed depth following big losses in free agency at the position. They certainly added to it with the pick of Jennings.
In four years of play at Alabama, he recorded 193 total tackles. His best season came in 2019. He recorded 83 tackles in 13 games played in addition to eight sacks. His five pass deflections were also of note, and indicative of the multi-faceted game he brings to the table. He joins fellow Alabama alum Dont’a Hightower in Foxboro.
As the Patriots looked to remake their defense, Jennings should help get speed and youth to the position. Jennings is a tough player, and seems like the type of talent suited for a Bill Belichick defense.
It will be fascinating to see how Jennings gets used in this defense. He is a Bill Belichick-type player, and is not afraid to make the tackle. A new era of defense is taking shape in Foxboro.
