Rookie LB’s Rough Start, Coach’s Tough Love | New England Patriots News

Rookie linebacker Gabe Jacas got his NFL baptism by fire in the Patriots’ preseason opener, picking up a costly roughing-the-pass penalty that erased a potential interception — a mistake Vrabel’s coaching staff won’t ignore. But amid the red flags, Jacas flashed promise with four tackles, a QB hit, and pressure on Andy Dalton, hinting at untapped talent. Still recovering from knee surgery and missing early workouts, Jacas is being pushed hard by Vrabel, who’s even retooling his role for punt protection. While inconsistency remains, both coach and player embrace the intensity — Jacas says it brings out his best. With depth at edge rusher, he needs to find his footing fast if he’s to carve out a role this season. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/d0495e0914f49db5