As New England Patriots outside linebacker coach Mike Smith watched Saturday’s preseason game in Minnesota, one play in particular caught his eye.
With the Vikings offense backed up near their goal line, undrafted pass rush Elijah Ponder worked through a pair of blockers to help disrupt Minnesota’s quarterback. It left Smith with goosebumps.
“I’m fired up about that kid. I mean he’s got a vet feel to him,” Smith said Tuesday. “Another guy I mean, just last game something simple as you look at a rush when he got chipped — but usually when you get chipped the tackle’s sitting back and he’s waiting on you.