Not that there was any doubt it would get done, but the Patriots have officially locked up their third-round pick from the 2023 draft.
According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, LB/S Marte Mapu will sign his four-year rookie contract on Friday.
Mapu has dominated Patriots OTAs over the course of the last several weeks, showing off his versatility at both linebacker and safety and looking as though he belongs in the NFL right from the jump.
The former Sacramento State Hornet has been thrown right into the fire on New England's defense throughout their optional sessions and looks ready for the challenge. With Devin McCourty retiring in March, there's a high possibility that Mapu plays an impact role immediately.
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After tearing his pectoral muscle training in February, Mapu told us after he was drafted that he’ll be ready “by training camp at the latest”. He has donned a red non-contact jersey throughout OTAs, but you can’t tell he’s injured whatsoever. He’s flying around the field and looks fast, fluid and instinctual.
The only unsigned Patriots rookies remaining are Christian Gonzalez and Keion White. New England will return to the field on Monday for mandatory rookie minicamp.
Make sure to follow Mike on Twitter @mikekadlick, and follow @WEEI for the latest up-to-date Patriots and Boston sports news!
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