New Patriots Offensive Lineman Believes He Has ‘Something To Prove’ originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The New England Patriots knew they had to improve their offensive line, and that was a focus this offseason.
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New England drafted Caleb Lomu in the first round, and in free agency, signed Alijah Vera-Tucker to a three-year, $42 million contract. Vera-Tucker is a star offensive guard, but injuries have plagued his career, as he’s played in 43 of a possible 85 games over the last five seasons.
Despite the Patriots giving him a hefty contract, Vera-Tucker said he has something to prove and has a chip on his shoulder.
“For me, personally, I’m really eager, not only just because I wasn’t able to play last year, because I’m on a new team as well,” Vera-Tucker said to MassLive. “So, you know, coaches have seen my film and this and that, but nobody on the team has seen me play, so for me, I got something to prove… and I’m grateful to be in that position.”
Throughout his NFL career with the New York Jets, Vera-Tucker suffered torn triceps on both arms and ruptured his Achilles tendon.
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Ahead of training camp, Vera-Tucker said he’s fully healthy and is eager to show it to the coaching staff and the fans.
“I’m definitely on track. Feeling great,” Vera-Tucker said. “Shout out to the training staff here, man. Doing a great job with me. We’re working together. Communication is key in that you’re recovering from the injury, so everything’s going well, man, and we’re on track.”
Vera-Tucker was selected 14th overall in the 2021 NFL Draft by the New York Jets.
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