Patriots Rookie Minicamp Review: Christian Gonzalez; Malik Cunningham at QB?
FOXBORO — The New England Patriots 2023 rookie class has completed its ‘orientation’ — and the team has the pictures to prove it.
As did several NFL teams throughout the pro football landscape, the Pats held their rookie minicamp over the weekend at Gillette Stadium. Though the sessions were closed to the media, the team’s website provided a first look at the newest Patriots’ first reps on the practice fields. From first-round cornerback Christian Gonzalez, to wide receiver — and potential late-round steal — Demario Douglas, the Pats rookies appear to be settling into life in Foxboro.
However, they were not that comfortable.
In keeping with the team’s tradition, the participants were provided neither a jersey, nor a logo to adorn their helmet. As has been the case under head coach Bill Belichick, each of those items is to be earned through their play on the field.
While most of Pats fans’ attention has been focused on 2023 draftees such as Gonzalez, a report from Doug Kyed of A to Z Sports may cast new light on the potential of undrafted free agent quarterback Malik Cunningham. With much speculation continuing to surround Cunningham’s willingness to change positions, the 24-year-old was used exclusively at quarterback during New England’s three-day minicamp.
Despite going undrafted last month, Cunningham signed a significant deal to become a member of the Patriots. His contract includes $200,000 in guarantees, consisting of a $30,000 signing bonus and $170,000 salary guarantee. In fact, it marked only the second time in team history in which they have made such a financial investment in an undraftd rookie.
Cunningham’s dual-threat abilities as a quarterback were likely a significant factor in his appeal to the Patriots. The former Louisville Cardinal started 47 during his six years with the program. He completed 692 passes (62.6 percent) for 9,664 yards, 70 touchdowns compared to 29 interceptions. On the ground, Cunningham proves to be equally — if not more— effective, compiling 3,184 yards and scoring 50 touchdowns on 619 rushing attempts.
Still, Cunningham’s size (6-0, 192 pounds) and questions surrounding his accuracy have led many to believe that he may be best suited for a positional change at the pro level. Having previously been considered for both safety and wide receiver in the past, Cunningham reportedly has indicated that he would be open to suggestion — provided it could facilitate his securing a roster spot for 2023.
At present, however, New England is seemingly interested in adding his versatile skill set to a quarterback room which currently features starter Mac Jones, backup Bailey Zappe and veteran Trace McSorley.
Meanwhile Patriots rookies and veterans will next hit the practice fields on May 22, when Organized Team Activities (OTAs) begin at Gillette Stadium. New England has now signed two-thirds of its Draft class, with fellow selections Chad Ryland, Bryce Baringer, Kayshon Boutte, Atonio Mafi and Demario Douglas having agreed to their deals prior to the start of Friday’s camp.
Gonzalez, along with second-round defensive end Keion White, third-round linebacker Marte Mapu and fourth-round center Jake Andrews as New England’s unsigned rookies.
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