PatsPropaganda

Two most interesting nuggets to me:

Aaron Dobson presented an intriguing mix of “flash” plays (in which he catches your attention for something good) and rookie mistakes. Dobson elevated over Alfonzo Dennard and Steve Gregory down the sideline for a terrific catch in a 7-on-7 drill, followed up by a concentration drop just a few plays later. He again made a catch down the sideline later in practice that impressed, but like any rookie, he’s a work in progress. The size, speed and ability to make catches outside of his frame are evident.

After working last week with the outside linebackers/defensive ends during the individual drill period, top draft choice Jamie Collins was working alongside Jerod Mayo and Dont’a Hightower to start the period today. During team drills, Collins was back on the edge working as an outside linebacker. It’s too soon to tell, but Collins could be a case where the Patriots are experimenting with him to tap into his raw natural skill set to find out where he fits best.

I also saw the famous dance that landed him in the headlines. I saw the bar-tab and the parties. And, we all watched the round-the-clock coverage of his short vacation. We were incredulous at the negative press. And, the inaccuracies. He kicked a friend. He kicked a stranger. He re-injured his arm. He was out partying and drinking all night. In fact, he was with his brothers and playfully flipped one brother to the ground. He was not wasted and he did not injure his arm. It may be a minor point but who doesn’t wrestle with their brothers? Also, minor misstatements from the press are rarely insignificant. The story doesn’t quite sell as well if it is framed as ordinary horsing around.

Here is what he will never tell you. He spent four hours each day in the gym carefully working out after a long rehabilitation. Four hours. I cannot think of a single thing that I can do for four hours. This guy cares about his body. He cares about his team and his career. And the fans. Trust me, I am sure he would have preferred to sleep in but his work ethic and his commitment to his fans wouldn’t abide such reasonable behavior.