The New England Patriots added another talented piece to the secondary in safety Kyle Dugger in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft. It seems Safety Devin McCourty is ready to welcome him with open arms.
It is hardly uncommon for veteran players to take issue with teams using an early pick to take a player at their position. However, McCourty as made it clear that he plans on taking Dugger under his wing, via MassLive.com:
“You never compete with a guy at your position because you never go against each other,” McCourty said. “You are battling at the position, but the competition is against the receivers on your team, then eventually the preseason games, the regular season. I have always tried to develop great bonds with guys who have come in there. I think that is part of being a leader and I think that is part of who you want to be as a person. That is what I love . . . I am excited to get Kyle in there.”
It is encouraging to see that McCourty has no ill will toward New England's decision to take Dugger. His selflessness is undoubtedly one of the reasons why he has become such an integral piece of the franchise ever since he was taken by them in the first round of the 2010 NFL Draft.
McCourty's mentorship should help pay huge dividends for Dugger's development. After all, there are few rookies that have the benefit of being able to learn from a three-time Super Bowl champion, two-time Pro Bowler, and second-team All-Pro. Especially one that is so open to sharing some of the tricks of the trade that could eventually cost him his job.
Regardless, McCourty's comments are indicative of the team-first mindset for the Patriots. Although they may have ushered in some significant changes this offseason, it is clear that the locker room culture has not taken a hit.
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