The revamped New England Patriots jumped back to action in preparation for the upcoming season as they faced the Washington Football Team in their first preseason game. Key holdovers, returning veterans, and a handful of new faces currently headline the team's preseason campaign for 2021.
Bill Belichick's squad was able to show its fine form as they saw an impressive performance from running back Rhamondre Stevenson along with a respectable display from rookie quarterback Mac Jones. After overpowering Washington in a 22-13 victory, some names were able to justify their pursuit for a starting spot while others strengthened their case to be included in the final 53-man roster heading into Week 1.
Here are the three players who impressed and gave themselves a greater chance to secure a roster spot with the Patriots for the upcoming season:
Michael Jackson Sr.
His namesake may be identical to that of a legendary music icon but cornerback Michael Jackson Sr. still needs to work hard in order to make a name for himself on the field with the Patriots. Fortunately for him, he was able to do just that in their preseason opener as he saw significant action in a Stephon Gilmore-less secondary unit.
The Miami alum emerged as one of the top performers on defense as he accounted for four total tackles and an assisted tackle for New England. His production was only second to linebacker Harvey Langi, who topped the team with seven total tackles of his own.
With Gilmore still out, the ongoing preseason slate for the Patriots may be a good chance for Jackson to earn himself a spot on the team's rotation and provide depth for the New England defense moving forward.
Quinn Nordin
An undrafted rookie, placekicker Quinn Nordin finally got his first taste of NFL action when he was called to step up to the plate against Washington. The 23-year-old was effective early on as he gave a scoring boost for the Patriots by nailing two field goals in the first two quarters of the game.
Nordin eventually concluded the tilt with a perfect 3/3 clip and was able to showcase the accuracy of his kicks at the next level. His performance was a good start for his pro career but he will need to do more work if he wants to establish himself as the team's regular placekicker in the near future. If he gets to do so, then the Patriots may have found their newest diamond in the rough in the form of an undrafted talent in Nordin.
Kristian Wilkerson
Wide receiver Kristian Wilkerson is one of the names that is trying to make it to the final 53-man roster after having a shaky rookie campaign last season. Certainly enough, it won't be an easy task for him as he will have to compete with the newly acquired weapons on the Patriots in Kendrick Bourne, Jonnu Smith, and Hunter Henry, among others.
So far, he has been performing well and has been an eye-opener for the Patriots in their preseason preparations. The work that he is putting in also translated on the field as he generated 39 receiving yards on six receptions to lead the team's receiving group against Washington.
Indeed, Wilkerson will have to make the most out of every opportunity that he can get if he wants to secure a spot in the team's revamped offense this season.
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