Gerard Warren didn’t make the Patriots coming out of training camp and even after the Pats re-signed him going into week four against the Raiders he still played a mostly bit part.
But things changed once the playoff hit. After averaging 20.9 snaps during the regular season, Warren has logged 40 and 42 snaps in the Patriots two playoff wins, with one sack, two pressures, five tackles and four stops.
Bill Belichick has a penchant for knowing the right buttons to press with veterans and Warren has become a significant part of the Patriots defense in January, while second year player Brandon Deaderick has taken a step back. Clearly keeping Warren fresh is paying dividends now, with it all on the line.
Against the Broncos in the Divisional Round Pro Football Focus had Warren ranked as the top Patriots defender. As a former third overall pick, Warren knows this could be his last chance to get a Super Bowl ring.
Expect him and other veterans like Brian Waters and Shaun Ellis to bring their “A” games on Sunday.
