WEEI.com: Dustin Pedroia's uncle coached Lenon in Detroit

[Christopher_Price]

Hey all ... from the "It's A Small World" Department -- I just got off the phone with Phil Snow, who was the linebacker coach in Detroit for three seasons with Paris Lenon. Turns out, Snow is Dustin Pedroia's uncle. Anyway, here's what he thinks of Lenon:

Christopher Price | Newest Patriot linebacker Lenon 'a real pro'

As always, let me know what you think,
Chris

 

[DefenseRules]

Hey all ... from the "It's A Small World" Department -- I just got off the phone with Phil Snow, who was the linebacker coach in Detroit for three seasons with Paris Lenon. Turns out, Snow is Dustin Pedroia's uncle. Anyway, here's what he thinks of Lenon:

Christopher Price | Newest Patriot linebacker Lenon 'a real pro'

As always, let me know what you think,
Chris

Thanks Chris. It's a small world indeed. I with the guy luck. You can never have too much depth.

 

[jmt57]

In Detroit, he was the middle linebacker in Detroit’s 4-3 defensive scheme. With the Patriots, he projects as an inside linebacker, and will join a group that includes Jerod Mayo, Tedy Bruschi and Gary Guyton. Realistically, he will push Guyton and Bruschi for playing time -- last season, Bruschi played most of the running downs, while Guyton was on the field on passing downs.

Chris, I'm curious what your thoughts are as to who (other than Mayo) gets the most playing time? I realize it's just speculation since we are three months away from the start of the season, but if all are healthy then who is the odd man out?

I'm guessing that the Pats would again go with Bruschi on running downs and Guyton on passing downs, with Lenon available for special teams and backup depth in case of injury. If all three are healthy does he have a realistic shot at overtaking Bruschi or Guyton?

 

[Christopher_Price]

Chris, I'm curious what your thoughts are as to who (other than Mayo) gets the most playing time? I realize it's just speculation since we are three months away from the start of the season, but if all are healthy then who is the odd man out?

I'm guessing that the Pats would again go with Bruschi on running downs and Guyton on passing downs, with Lenon available for special teams and backup depth in case of injury. If all three are healthy does he have a realistic shot at overtaking Bruschi or Guyton?

I think at this point -- if everyone is healthy -- it's realistic to expect Lenon challenge Guyton for playing time on passing downs. He might be an every down linebacker in a pinch -- that is, if something happens to Bruschi -- but right now, his strength appears to be in pass defense.

One other thing -- one thing that really struck me after talking with Snow is that Lenon always seems to find his way into the lineup. Folks always seem to underestimate him, but he seems to be the last man standing. That kind of perseverance could serve him well in New England.

 

[Leave No Doubt]

Snow really has some great things to say about him and his work ethic. Along side players like Bru,Mayo and Guyton it sounds as though Lenon should really get an opportunity to be in the best position possible.

Snow makes some really good observations; great interview,thanks Chris!

 

[jmt57]

Thanks for the insight Chris.

 

[RayClay]

Great stuff Chris. I noticed he had played all 3 4-3 LB positions, that should help him transition, I'd think. Can he bulk up enough to be a serious 3-4 starter possibility? I don't know, doesn't sound like he'd be afraid to try.