Bolden Beautiful? Patriots Rookie is No ‘Mr. Irrelevant’
FOXBORO — New England Patriots rookie cornerback Isaiah Bolden is hoping to be more than just the Pats version of “Mr. Irrelevant.”
Though the nickname is typically reserved for the final overall pick of the annual NFL Draft, New England put its finishing touches on the 2023 selection extravaganza by ultimately choosing the Jackson State defensive back with their lone seventh-round selection.
Despite his place among the remaining 11 draftees — New England’s largest draft class since 2010 — Bolden’s skill set is far from “irrelevant.”
The 6-1, 193-pound defensive back began his college career at Florida State. Though he decided to redshirt his first season, he played in all thirteen games as a freshman; earning nine tackles and one interception. He also contributed on special teams by serving as a kickoff returner.
Bolden transferred to Jackson State for his junior season. He played in 10 games, totaling eight tackles in his first year as a Tiger. Bolden also became a dominant kickoff returner, averaging 36.9 yards per return with two kickoffs returned for touchdowns. During his senior season, he played in 13 games, totaling 44 tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss, and one fumble recovery.
After excelling as a special-teamer in college, the 23-year-old dazzled scouts by running a 4.33 40-yard dash at Jackson State's Pro Day. Yet, he remained on the Draft board until late Day 3 when New England selected him with pick No. 245.
While attempting to earn a roster spot as a late-round draft choice can be a daunting task, Bolden finds additional motivation in earning yet another unforeseen distinction. He was also the only player among the 2023 NFL Draft Class’ 259 members selected from a Historically Black College/University (HBCU.) In fact, his college coach and NFL legend Deion Sanders expressed disappointment that Bolden was the only choice from an HBCU, saying he was "ashamed" that other teams opted not to explore such a talent pool.
Never one to shy away from a challenge, Bolden appreciated his coach’s sentiments, while appearing to add then to the growing mountain of motivational factors with which he will be playing in 2023.
For the Patriots, Bolden projects as both a depth corner and a special teams contributor. Still, he will face significant competition. First-round phenom Christian Gonzalez is already being touted as New England’s future lockdown corner, while second-year defensive back Jack Jones faces an uncertain future due to off-field legal troubles. With veterans Jonathan Jones (perimeter) and Myles Bryant (slot) expected to take on starting duties, corners Marcus Jones, Myles Bryant, Shaun Wade, Rodney Randle and fellow rookie Ameer Speed will compete with Bolden for reserve roles within New England’s cornerback group.
Though the battle for earning a roster spot during his rookie season will be difficult, Bolden’s ambition continues to be cultivated by a desire to prove is doubters wrong. Should he need a little extra inspiration, Bolden may follow the example of his cousin Brandon, who joined the Pats as an undrafted free agent in 2012. Though currently with the Las Vegas Raiders, the elder Bolden spent his first six NFL seasons with New England (2012-17) and won two Super Bowls with the team.
Ultimately, replicating his cousin’s success is likely to serve more as a model than motivation. However, Bolden’s desire to become a capable pro with the New England Patriots is unquestionably intense, iron-willed and anything but “irrelevant.”
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