Sony Michel’s name was floated as a potential trade target this summer due to his expiring contract and the Patriots’ depth at running back. He was actually connected to the Rams by pundits who wondered which players they might go after when Cam Akers tore his Achilles.
But Michel must not pay much attention to Twitter and sports blogs because he didn’t see a trade coming at all. He didn’t say he was blindsided by the news on Wednesday morning, but it certainly was unexpected.
“I was surprised. I would assume that most people when they’re traded, they’re surprised,” he said Thursday during his first press conference.
Did he think about the possibility of being traded heading into camp?
“No, not at all. Not at all,” he replied.
Michel knows trades and roster moves are part of the NFL, so while it was surprising, he’s handling it like a professional. He was asked how he’s processing this new change, to which he said this.
“I believe just as professionals,” Michel said. “That’s part of our jobs, to be able to process things fast when things are thrown at you. It’s just like a football game, things are thrown at you that you didn’t expect. It’s all about trying to process it and adapt to it.”
Michel had been with the Patriots for the last three years after spending four seasons at Georgia. He’s not exactly used to major changes, but in the NFL, trades and cuts happen all the time.
He can’t waste much time now, especially with the season opener just two weeks away.
“The best way I can put it in football terminology, sudden change. Something suddenly happens and you’ve got to get ready to execute. Not much time can be wasted. Got to get up, get ready to go and get adjusted, acclimated with the new adjustment.”
