It’s been a strange nine games for Chase Winovich.
The second-year defensive end/outside linebacker was arguably the best Patriots defensive player the first few games of the season, but then played 22, 13 and five snaps in three straight games from Weeks 6-8.
But, he’s seen his role expand over the last two games, including playing more of a traditional linebacker role against the Ravens Sunday night where he played 65 of a possible 66 snaps.
“I’ve always said this: I’m a football player just looking for opportunities to help the team win any way possible,” Winovich said via video conference. “This was a really fun game for a lot of reasons, but getting to play off the ball again was something I definitely enjoyed. I view myself as a pretty versatile football player. I’m just really thankful to my coaches for, A) giving me the opportunity to expand my role. Secondly, thankful for my teammates Ja’Whaun Bentley, Terez Hall, John Simon and specifically (outside linebackers coach) Steve Belichick with the coverage stuff, just helping me get my mind oriented and get my keys right. And (inside linebackers coach) Jerod (Mayo), especially, with the in-game adjustments. I can thank everybody, but I pretty much did.
“Thankful to my teammates and coaches for helping to prepare me for this game. It was a great team win and really happy to be here.”
According to PFF, he had just 24 career snaps off the defensive line going into the game, but that changed in a big way.
“I have never played a game that much off the ball since high school,” Winovich said. “If you go back and watch my high school tape, it really felt like I was playing high school ball in a way. I had a blast. I love just being in a position where I can pursue and play physical, so when I am in a position like that it allows me to make the most of some of my attributes. Just being able to attack and play and come off the edge and penetrate and make fast decisions and use my instincts. It was a fun experience — and drop into coverage, which was cool too.”
Winovich finished with seven tackles, 10 pressures and a QB hit in the win.
We’ll never really know why the second-year Michigan product was seemingly benched for three games, but Winovich is showing he’s a playmaker and can be trusted to play a variety of roles.
