Patriots' Rookie Keion White Not Satisfied With Impressive Debut: 'Play Faster!'

Despite the New England Patriots' 20-9 loss to the Houston Texans on Thursday, rookie defensive end Keion White made an excellent first impression.

The New England Patriots kicked off their preseason slate in disappointing fashion, falling 20-9 to the Houston Texans on Thursday night.

However, results aren't the be all and end all in preseason play. What's more important is seeing how individual players are performing and developing, and in this aspect, the Patriots had a clear standout. Keion White, the No. 46 pick in last April's draft, had a monster showing in his first taste of NFL action.

White may have only played the first half, but his impact on the game was undeniable. He lined up all over the defensive line and no matter where he was, his presence was immediately noticeable. He was blowing past his blocker on passing plays, stuffing running plays, and on one play, he brought down Texans running back Dare Ogunbowale to help the Patriots recover a fumble.

Looks like Keion White's night is over after a ridiculous 1st half

Balled out from multiple alignments pic.twitter.com/nywcAEOTJs

— Taylor Kyles (@tkyles39) August 11, 2023

After the game, White claimed that he still has plenty more to offer.

“Just being able to play faster... I just need to play fast, put my head down, and go,” White said.

Keion White on what he wants to improve on after tonight:

“Just being able to play faster... I just need to play fast, put my head down, and go.” pic.twitter.com/tAJcQecZjI

— Mike Kadlick (@mikekadlick) August 11, 2023

In his final collegiate season at Georgia Tech, White recorded 54 total tackles, 14 tackles for loss and 7.5 sacks. That production, combined with his massive frame at 6-5 and 290 pounds, made him a popular target ahead of the draft, with some predicting he could go in the first round. The Patriots were lucky enough to grab him in the middle of the second round, and so far, that selection looks like it could be a steal.

If White is truly capable of reaching another level, the rest of the NFL should watch out.

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