FOXBORO — Patriots outdoors linebackers coach Mike Smith has labored with a number of Professional Bowl cross rushers over his 15-year teaching profession, but sees one thing new in one in all his youngest gamers.
Undrafted rookie Elijah Ponder is “most likely the most effective (undrafted) free agent pickups” Smith stated he’s ever seen, noting Tuesday the Cal Poly alum at occasions seems to be like a seasoned vet.
“He was a man that no one was , however in the event you have a look at his athletic capability, it’s off the charts,” Smith told reporters Tuesday. “He’s an enormous rusher. He strikes nice in house. He’s not scared to go put his face proper down the center in the event you noticed him in a sport. However he’s bought this very uncommon capability of selecting up issues shortly and looking out like he’s achieved it from Day 1. It’s simply exceptional.”
Over his five-year profession at Cal Poly, Ponder totaled 167 tackles, 26.5 sacks, one interception returned for a landing, seven cross breakups, three pressured fumble and two blocked kicks. He was named an FCS All-American in 2023.
Within the NFL, Ponder has up to now made his mark on particular groups, beginning on three completely different models within the preseason. By means of two preseason video games on protection, he’s tallied two hurries and one sort out. Smith additionally famous the Vikings used further blockers to gradual him as a cross rusher.
“I’m fired up about that child. He’s bought a vet really feel to him,” Smith stated. “One other man, simply final sport, you have a look at a rush the place he bought chipped – and often while you get chipped the sort out is sitting again as a result of he’s ready for you. The sort out’s set at 4 yards, which is our resolution level. However he did one thing easy as an out and in and changed his step… similar to that. No wasted motion. It simply gave me goosebumps.”
