FOXBOROUGH, Mass. —
Can Swinson deliver? Rookie aims to boost Patriots‘ pass rush after teamS league-worst sack total in 2024.
New England hopes its fifth-round pick can quickly contribute.
- Swinson led LSU in sacks (8.5),pressures (36),and tackles for loss (13) last season.
- LSU’s defensive coordinator believes Swinson should have been a third-round pick.
- Swinson’s work ethic improved dramatically after his grandmother’s death.
The New England patriots are banking on fifth-round pick Bradyn Swinson to invigorate their pass rush, after a 2024 season were their 28 sacks ranked dead last in the NFL.
Swinson’s Story
With new head coach Mike Vrabel advocating for an aggressive defensive approach, the Patriots are determined to avoid a repeat of their 2024 sack drought. The selection of LSU pass rusher Bradyn Swinson in the fifth round signals the team’s commitment to a new defensive identity.
Swinson’s college career took off last season when LSU adopted a similar defensive scheme to the one vrabel intends to implement. He tallied team highs in sacks (8.5, seventh in the Southeastern Conference), pressures (36, tied for fifth in the SEC) and tackles for a loss (13). The patriots were surprised he was still available with the 146th pick.
Did you know?-The Patriots have drafted at least one player from LSU in four of the last five NFL drafts. The most recent pick before Swinson was quarterback Jayden Daniels, selected third overall.
Swinson believes he was a “steal,” a sentiment echoed by LSU defensive coordinator Blake Baker, who felt Swinson’s pass-rushing skills warranted at least a third-round selection.
“He has a realy good football IQ. I think he understands when to rush the passer,whether that be from down-and-distance or clues from the offensive tackle,” Baker said. “Then I think he does a really good job of setting up his rushes. Like a pitcher, he has a fastball, but he knows when to throw the curve and the changeup, too. He has good twitch and good length. His get-off is really good and he has long arms. He does a good job using his hands with his pass rush.”
Rookie spotlight: Taking a closer look at fifth-round pick Bradyn Swinson of LSU (43) during edge-rush technique work with assistant coach mike Smith. pic.twitter.com/l9ZrkLDjLL
– Mike Reiss (@MikeReiss)
June 11, 2025
Standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing 255 pounds, Swinson will initially learn from veterans Harold Landry III and K’Lavon Chaisson. Baker believes the Patriots’ scheme, which emphasizes playing on the opposite side of the line of scrimmage, should suit Swinson well.
Reader question:-How much will Swinson’s success depend on the performance of the Patriots’ defensive line as a whole? What other rookies will impact the team?
“That was one of the biggest philosophical changes from when I came in as [LSU’s] new coordinator [in 2024], where the year before they really didn’t. That’s our philosophy, too, and that’s what he’s best at. that was a big reason you saw the uptick in production in Bradyn’s senior year,” Baker said. “I don’t think he’s a guy that is just going to be able to sit there on the line of scrimmage and be able to two-gap tackles and tight ends. It definitely plays into his strength.”
Swinson,who turns 23 on July 4,transferred to LSU after spending his first three years at Oregon (30 games,1 start,35 tackles,3 sacks). According to Patriots director of player personnel Ryan Cowden, Swinson was a backup in his first season with the Tigers (12 games, 35 tackles, 2 sacks), playing “behind some good players,” before his breakout season.
what event dramatically impacted Swinson’s work ethic? At halftime of the opening game in 2024 against Southern Cal, Swinson learned of the death of his grandmother, Dawna Lynn David.He dedicated the remainder of the game to her, and baker witnessed a conversion in Swinson’s approach.
Pro tip:-NFL teams ofen look for players with a strong “why.” Swinson’s dedication to his grandmother after her passing provides the Patriots with a player who has a clear purpose and motivation.
“He turned into a different player as far as his practice habits, as far as the work he put in off the field. It was really, really cool to see him grow in a short period of time,” Baker said, recalling a fourth-and-1 stop against Ole Miss as a defining moment. “He’s very charismatic. Got a good smile. He can win you over quickly because he is so bright.”
The Douglasville, Georgia, native also has a connection with first-round pick Will campbell, with whom he played for two years at LSU.
“They went against each other daily, and I’m sure they will continue to do so. That’s pretty cool,” Baker said.”The little bit I know with Coach Vrabel, I think the Patriots are the perfect fit. He responds well to being challenged and tough coaching. And having Will there [should help] from a little bit of a comfort factor.”
Pro Presence
Following a visit to a Red Sox game earlier in June, Vrabel took the Patriots rookies to Celtics headquarters last week. Rookie receiver Kyle Williams, who grew up in Los Angeles, said it provided him with a sense of the city’s pro sports surroundings.
“It’s huge. You see Patriots everywhere. You see Celtics everywhere. Just seeing the love this town has for sports, it makes you want to give back and compete harder,” he said.
Williams, who hoped to meet Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, shared the core message from coach Joe Mazzulla and president of basketball operations Brad Stevens.
“Everything is a mindset.Mindset will take you further than what talent and skill can do,” he said. “If you carry it throughout your everyday life — how you do anything is how you do everything.”
Meaning of a number
Williams wore No. 1 at Washington State and No. 2 at Nevada, but those numbers are already taken by Ja’Lynn Polk and Landry. Williams has come to appreciate No. 18 because of its history in New England.
“The legendary Matthew Slater,” he said, adding he hopes to live up to Slater’s example.
Wise Reflects
deatrich Wise Jr., now with the Commanders after eight seasons in New England, shared lessons he learned as a Patriot during an appearance on the “John Keim Report.”
- On Bill Belichick: “One of the things Bill always said was ‘practice execution becomes game reality.’ That’s one thing I’ve always taken to heart. Practice as hard as I can and exactly how I want the game to be. That’s what makes great teams great.”
- On player influences: “Lawrence Guy would always tell me that I need to understand block recognition. When I first got to the league, it was about how fast I could move, relying on my talents.But learning how to build my techniques up, repeat those every day, and learn from guys like Trey Flowers, lawrence Guy — the way they use their hands and to recognize not only what play was coming, but how to stop it.”
Wise has been lining up as a top defensive end in Commanders’ spring practices and will return to Gillette stadium for a joint practice Aug. 6 and a preseason game Aug. 8.
Did You Know?
Swinson had three sacks and eight pressures in a September game against South Carolina, joining just two other FBS players with those numbers last season: San Diego State’s Trey White (two such games) and Boston College’s Donovan Ezeiruaku (second round, Cowboys).
A Scheme for Success
The Patriots’ defensive strategy under Vrabel, gleaned from his roots with the Tennessee Titans, prioritizes a disruptive front seven. A key element involves using versatile edge rushers like Swinson, who can attack from multiple angles. This approach seeks to exploit mismatches and create opportunities for sacks and tackles for loss. This adaptability is critical in today’s NFL, where offenses constantly evolve and look to exploit weaknesses.
Swinson’s ability to quickly grasp and apply the Patriots’ defensive playbook will be crucial, along with his development under the guidance of veteran players. Vrabel’s focus on relentless pressure and a “bend-but-don’t-break” beliefs necessitates a robust pass rush.
Impact of the Defensive Line
Swinson’s success will be intertwined with the performance of the entire defensive line, which now includes Christian Barmore. While swinson’s individual talent is undeniable, the effectiveness of the unit depends on collective pressure, run-stopping ability, and the ability to generate consistent penetration. The scheme requires the defensive line to open lanes for blitzers, occupy blockers to free up pass rushers, and maintain gap integrity. In addition,the presence of talented players like Barmore draws double teams,creating opportunities for others to shine.
The depth of the defensive line also impacts Swinson’s opportunities. His playing time could fluctuate, and his ability to stay healthy and contribute consistently could become critical.
Other Rookies to Watch
Several other rookies could make an immediate impact and are building excitement. Cornerback Kwane Gainer and wide receiver Ja’Lynn Polk, known for his strong hands and route-running. Linebacker Jontrey hunter will add speed and athleticism. Each rookie brings unique skills to the table, and thier collective contributions will bolster the Patriots’ chances.
Did you know?– Historically, the Patriots have seen mixed results from their recent draft classes. This season’s rookies will be under pressure to perform promptly to help the team improve.
A successful draft class will supply critical talent and depth as the Patriots attempt to return to the playoffs.
Bradyn Swinson: What’s Next?
Swinson’s path to success in the NFL involves more than just physical talent. He must demonstrate a strong understanding of the game, a commitment to continuous improvement, and the ability to stay focused on the task at hand during each snap. the Patriots’ coaching staff, known for its emphasis on fundamentals and player development.
Moreover, Swinson’s ability to effectively learn from veteran players and integrate his skills within the team’s defensive strategy will determine his immediate impact. He has the physical tools and the right mindset, but the ultimate test will be in translating these assets into consistent performance on the field.
Key Takeaways and Advantages
- Scheme Fit: swinson’s pass-rushing skills align well with the Patriots’ defensive strategy.
- Coaching: Vrabel’s focus on developing players will be essential for Swinson’s development.
- Work Ethic: The emotional impact of his grandmother’s passing fueled a transformation in Swinson’s practice habits and dedication.
- Mentorship: Learning from veterans such as Harold Landry III offers instant growth and experience.
FAQs
Q: What specific aspects of Swinson’s game need the most improvement?
A: Developing a wider array of pass-rushing moves and enhancing run-stopping techniques will be critically important.
Q: How does Swinson’s previous experience at Oregon and LSU prepare him for the NFL?
A: He has learned to adapt to different schemes and compete against high-level players, making him a good addition to the team.
Q: How will the Patriots measure Swinson’s success in his rookie season?
A: Sacks, tackles for loss, pressures, and overall impact in run defense will be crucial metrics.
Q: What role does Will Campbell play in Swinson’s transition to the Patriots?
A: campbell and Swinson have worked together for multiple seasons, and their familiarity will bring a feeling of connection to the team.
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