The New England Patriots have always been known for their ability to find hidden gems in the NFL draft. But this year, it seems like they may have struck gold with an undrafted free agent, Elijah Ponder. Despite being a long shot to make the 53-man roster, Ponder has impressed his position coach, Mike Smith, with his rare abilities and potential.
In a recent interview, Smith couldn’t stop praising Ponder and his performance during training camp. He said, “Elijah has a very rare ability that you don’t see often in young players. He has a natural instinct for the game and a relentless work ethic that sets him apart from others.”
These words from Smith carry a lot of weight, considering his experience and expertise as a coach. He has been with the Patriots for over a decade and has worked with some of the best linebackers in the league. So, when he says that Ponder has a rare ability, it’s definitely something to take note of.
But what exactly is this rare ability that Ponder possesses? According to Smith, it’s his ability to read and react to plays quickly. He has a natural feel for the game and can anticipate the movements of the offense, making him a disruptive force on the field. This is a crucial skill for a linebacker, and Ponder seems to have it in abundance.
But it’s not just his physical abilities that have impressed Smith. He also spoke highly of Ponder’s work ethic and dedication to improving his game. Despite being an undrafted rookie, Ponder has shown a level of maturity and professionalism that is rare for someone his age. He has been putting in extra hours in the film room and on the practice field, trying to soak up as much knowledge as he can from his coaches and teammates.
This attitude has not gone unnoticed by the Patriots’ coaching staff and players. In fact, veteran linebacker Dont’a Hightower has taken Ponder under his wing and has been mentoring him throughout training camp. Hightower, who has been with the Patriots for nine years, knows what it takes to succeed in the NFL and sees a lot of potential in Ponder.
The fact that Ponder has been able to impress a veteran like Hightower speaks volumes about his abilities and character. It’s not easy for an undrafted rookie to earn the respect and trust of his teammates, but Ponder seems to have done just that.
Of course, it’s still early days, and Ponder has a long way to go before he can secure a spot on the Patriots’ roster. But with the praise and support he has received from his coaches and teammates, he’s definitely on the right track. And if he continues to work hard and improve, there’s no reason why he can’t make the final cut and become a valuable asset for the Patriots this season.
In conclusion, the New England Patriots may have found a diamond in the rough in Elijah Ponder. His rare abilities, coupled with his strong work ethic and determination, have caught the attention of his coaches and teammates. And if he continues to impress, he could become the latest success story in the Patriots’ long history of finding hidden gems. So, keep an eye out for Ponder this season, because he just might surprise everyone and make a name for himself in the NFL.
