\- I'm not sure where he fits in this defense yet, but edge rusher Anfernee Jennings has been noticeable pushing the pocket. Jennings has typically played as a stand-up edge setter on early downs, which isn't usually a full-time role in this scheme. Still, we know he can play.
\- Fourth-round S Craig Woodson is the player who has surprised me the most, in a good way. He can play centerfield, looks smooth as a robber/short zone defender, and can cover tight ends. There's a good skill set there that's worth developing as a complement to Kyle Dugger and Jabrill Peppers. He has consistently been in the right spots and forced some errant throws in both practices.
\- Fourth-round DL Joshua Farmer flashed more in the second session with a batted pass and got some push on the inside as a pass rusher. Farmer is a long, stout rusher.
\- After we saw projected starting outside corners Christian Gonzalez and Carlton Davis work together in the first open OTA, Davis wasn't present in the latest session. Third-year CB Alex Austin was the next man up alongside Gonzalez and Marcus Jones. Austin got some reps in the slot, which might speak to the Pats desire to deploy a "big" slot in some defensive packages. The "big" slot defender was a role in Vrabel's defense during his time in Tennessee, covering tight ends and bigger-bodied slot receivers while being sturdy against the run.
\- S Marte Mapu could play more at the second level of the defense under this coaching staff. Mapu had a nice blitz that got home in Wednesday's practice: Marte Mapu, linebacker?!
\- Rookie K Andy Borregales is 7-for-8 on field goal attempts through two open practices. He has a consistent stroke that allows him to be accurate even if he doesn't hit the ball super clean. Like a golfer, you want kickers to have a consistent, repeatable swing of the leg.