When you think about the all-time greatest linebackers in New England Patriots history, no doubt Tedy Bruschi comes to mind.
But if what Bruschi recently said about current Pats linebacker Jerod Mayo is true, our minds may shift to Mayo sooner rather than later.
Speaking at his 8th annual Spaulding Rehabilitation golf tournament at TPC-Boston today, Bruschi was asked about Mayo, in which the Pats living legend had many good things to say.
From Mike Reiss at ESPNBoston.com:
"He's done things in his short career with the Patriots that I wasn't able to do until my eighth or ninth year," he said. "That's how far along he is.
"I truly see him being the best linebacker in the game within two years. I think that's how good he is."
Mayo was drafted 10th by the Patriots in the 2008 NFL Draft, going ahead of most projections. Clearly Bill Belichick saw something in Mayo during pre-draft workouts and meetings that other scouts and coaches missed.
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Belichick has praised Mayo's football smarts, hustle, and leadership on countless occasions, and it's clear that he has big plans for Mayo anchoring the Pats defense for many years to come.