New England Patriots linebacker Ronnie Perkins flew under the radar in 2021 as a rookie. The former third-round pick had to undergo a transformation — with so much to learn in a new position with the Patriots. So he sat on the sideline (barely seeing the field) to watch and learn. But this season, it has to be different. He has to contribute. He indicated he knows that.
The Patriots parted ways with linebackers Kyle Van Noy, Dont’a Hightower and Jamie Collins — though Hightower’s return isn’t outside the realm of possibility. In the meantime, the Patriots are looking to youngsters like Josh Uche, Cameron McGrone and Perkins.
Perkins said he spent 2021 working on technique, building muscle and improving his understanding of the X’s and O’s. He said that he almost never dropped into coverage at Oklahoma, which allowed him to work solely as a pass-rusher. Perkins learned how to do that last season, and will start applying his new knowledge this offseason.
“I’ve been focused on coming in this year ready, coming in stronger, coming in in shape, ready to help the team however I can,” Perkins said Tuesday. “It’s definitely sad to see those guys go, Jamie, KVN, High but it also tells us it’s time to step up. We can’t lean on those older guys anymore, it’s time to step into their shoes.”
Ja’Whaun Bentley is the only returning starter at linebacker. It feels like a new generation of linebackers need to rise in New England.
“I put the work in and did a lot of things to help myself to be a linebacker,” Perkins said. “I like doing it. First time doing it, I was a little off, like anything. But now I’m comfortable and I like it.”
With the team spending this week in minicamp, Perkins is sure to get looks with the first-team defense. When training camp rolls around, they’ll need him to look like a competent contributor, particularly on third downs.
