I've noticed rookie cornerback Jonathan Wilhite is on the field way more than fellow rookie Terrence Wheatley. Is it just me? How do you think Wheatley has looked in practice?
David T.
In the San Francisco game, David, Wilhite did see some significant minutes in the sub packages as a slot cover guy. But keep in mind, when starting right corner Ellis Hobbs went out for a play or two, it was Wheatley who took his place out there on the edge. As for how Wheatley, this year’s second-round pick has looked in practice, it’s difficult for us to say. Unlike during training camp, when we’re allowed to watch the entire session, the media is only allowed about 15 minutes of viewing time during the regular season, and most of that time covers the opening stretching period. So, there’s not much to see of Wheatley, or any other player, for that matter. What we have seen of him, however, leads me to believe that Wheatley is a very good corner with the intelligence to match. It’s a numbers game right now, with veterans Deltha O’Neal and Lewis Sanders ahead of him, but in time, I believe Wheatley will be a more consistent contributor for the Pats. And Wilhite, I must say, has been a pleasant surprise. For a fourth-round pick, he has shown the ability to hold his own against top-flight competition at this level. I’d say the Pats are in a good position for the future with these two young, talented rookies.
Erik Scalavino
