FOXBORO, Mass. — New England Patriots rookie right guard Tre’ Jackson is learning as much as he can during his first NFL training camp, and it helps to have a friend and former teammate in Bryan Stork who can help him make the transition to the pro game.
Stork, who became the Pats’ starting center as a rookie last season, played a few years next to Jackson at Florida State. Jackson said he’s benefitted from having Stork next to him in drills, as well as the other veterans.
“Stork is a great guy, learning things from him, as well as other vets that are in the room on the offensive line, teaching little techniques and stuff,” Jackson said. “Things that make you better.”
Jackson added: “It’s not just Stork, it’s being beside everyone, everyone is helping me out. I’m a rookie, and being to look to my right and get help and look to my left and get help, from both vets, it’s a good thing.”
Jackson was drafted by the Patriots in the fourth round of the 2015 NFL draft and brings plenty of size and power to the offensive line at 6-foot-4, 330 pounds. He also played in a lot of important games at Florida State, including a 2013 BCS National Championship Game victory over Auburn.
His ability to play left or right guard provides the Patriots with valuable versatility, and it wouldn’t be surprising if he makes an impact this coming season as injuries almost always test the depth of the O-line.
He’s getting a lot of reps in training camp, which is an encouraging sign.
Thumbnail photo via Gary A. Vasquez/USA TODAY Sports Images
