Edge player Harold Landry has had a similar impression of the budding Patriots defense. The former Boston College standout has looked comfortable back in New England while playing in a familiar scheme as a consistent presence on the end of the line.
"We got a talented group up front, I'll tell you that," said Landry after practice. "That's another reason why I'm excited for this season, just all the way up and down, our front seven, I just feel super excited. Really, the whole defense, to be honest, it's an exciting group to be around… because you just look at it and you feel the excitement of the production that you can have going out there, knowing that everybody out there has that play making ability, and that's exciting to be a part of."
For the new addition from the Super Bowl champion Eagles, Williams is already finding his role in Foxborough, praising the culture and tempo of the practices.
"It's been good," said Williams of the spring sessions. "Just trying to get familiar with everybody, get familiar with the system [and] communication. And just getting around the guys, seeing what they like to do, how we're gonna rush together, you know, just working on being one unit."
Williams fits right into a defense that's prioritizing speed and disruption up front. With an array of players who can fit any need, there will be plenty for defensive coordinator Terrell Williams to play with.
"I think that's got to be a strength for us this year, that front seven," said Vrabel before the minicamp practice. "We certainly invested in that position, and I like how they're competing. I like how they're working."
"A big part of my game is physicality," said Williams. "So, you know, right now [there's] only so much we can do, as far as, rushing power, or, like, stopping to run and things like that. So, it's just been a lot of finesse. But like I said, we've just been focusing on communication, trying to execute, and ending up in the right spot."
While the team is still in helmets and shells, there's already a clear vision taking shape. This is a Patriots defense that plans to win with its aggressiveness, athleticism and collective mindset. Barmore, Landry and Williams may come from different systems and backgrounds, but all three echoed the same sentiment: it's about playing fast, playing together, and playing for each other.
As minicamp continues, the defense will be forced to spin their wheels while they wait for the pads to come on, but once they do, look out.