For Patriots right tackle Morgan Moses, age is just a number when it comes to playing. At 35, he signed for a 13th NFL season and made his commitment clear.
Moses admitted he couldn’t pass up the chance to keep competing — and to play with his sons. 'They love the game,' he said. 'They enjoy being out there, and having me there with them.' His two-sack season last year showed New England’s strategy to manage his playing time was effective.
Controlling Moses' schedule
He said the plan worked well. 'We must know when they give us a break and take care of our bodies,' Moses noted. The same strategy is in place this summer. At times, Moses left workouts early or missed mandatory sessions. I’m 35,' he said plainly.
New blood and current strength
Caleb Lomu, the Patriots' first-round draft pick this spring, is set to take over from Moses in the future. Lomu has already been training at right tackle, often stepping in when Moses' schedule is lightened.
Moses is working closely with Lomu in practices and through film. 'We’re going to work together,' he said. 'We’ll work on the field and in the meeting room, too.'
Building for Year 2
Moses says he's 'feeling great' entering training camp. He’s also seeing progress from other linemen like Will Campbell and Alijah Vera-Tucker, a familiar name from his past squads.
With a top QB at the helm and a strong offensive line, the Patriots want to continue growing from their previous season. 'This is year two for the offense,' Moses said. 'It’s more important to focus on what we do, not the outside noise.'
The key, he said, is improving daily. 'I look in the mirror and say, 'Hey, I got better every day.' That’s the real surprise,' Moses said.