Chandler Jones gunning for Defensive Rookie of the Year
"I'm just going in there blind," Jones said, as he donned his new No. 95 shorts and a grey Patriots t-shirt. "Just taking it one day at a time."
Jones is among 19 other minicamp invitees eager to be seen this weekend, as the 2012 roster begins to take shape at Foxborough.
"A lot of people tell me I only get the opportunity to make one first impression. This week is my opportunity to make a first impression," Jones said. "What I'm trying to do is learn this playbook and impress the coaches."
Jones' high school coach said the defensive end is gunning for "15 sacks" and the "Defensive Rookie of the Year" distinction -- which would help impress his coaches.
How the staff views him in the early going is important to Jones, but the education element is an even bigger factor during this first weekend.
"The key is to learn all the dos and don'ts. Be a sponge," he said. "Know your role and earn respect from everyone. It's just the different trends and learning different ways, and getting in with the guys and build trust with them."
Gotta set your sites somewhere I guess. It certainly wouldn't be the first time that Belichick has drafted a DROTY, as Jerod Mayo won it back in the 2008 season. If Jones gets the 15 sacks his high school coach says he's gunning for he would be a lock for the award. That would be amazing.
Do you think Jones or Hightower has a better chance at winning the award? Comment below.
