The New England Patriots added yet another versatile and consistent playmaker to their linebacker group with the selection of Sacramento State linebacker Marte Mapu.
A two year starter for the Hornets, Mapu a varied mix of excellent production to the Sacramento State defense. With ability as a cover linebacker, run stuffer, and blitzer, Mapu was a vital chess piece for his defense. During those final two years Mapu put up impressive numbers with two sacks, seventeen quarterback pressures, 104 tackles, and six interceptions. While he is undersized, his tenacity and athleticism ensures Mapu will have a shot to stick around in the league.
Mapu seems like he was designed in a lab to join this Bill Belichick defense, and while he likely won’t be a starter from day one, it is hard to imagine him not stealing some snaps from the veteran starters in front of him at some point. It is possible that Mapu impresses in his rookie year and becomes the long term solution at the position.
