The New England Patriots name practice players of the week after each victory. These players are usually asked to imitate a player on the opposing team, or just do whatever the coaches ask of them.
Here are the 4 practice players of the week from the Patriots 23-21 victory over the Cardinals:
#Patriots practice players of the week: RB D.J. Foster, DB Brandon King, DB Jordan Richards & DB Vinnie Sunseri.
— New England Patriots (@Patriots) September 14, 2016
RB D.J. Foster: Foster likely copied Cardinals RB David Johnson in practice because of his pass catching and rushing ability. Johnson was a major focal point of the Cardinals offense and the Patriots had to be happy with their work, outside of the 45-yard run at the end of the game. Foster was inactive for the actual game.
DB Brandon King: King likely emulated Cardinals LB Deone Bucannon. Bucannon is a 6’1, 220 pound safety-turned-linebacker that is a key player in the Arizona defense. King was a 6’2, 220 pound safety-turned-linebacker-turned-defensive lineman in college and his 40 yard dash and broad jump is nearly identical to Bucannon’s. King was a key special teams player.
DB Jordan Richards: I wouldn’t be surprised if Richards practiced as Cardinals DB Tyrann Mathieu, possibly the most talented player on the entire Arizona roster. Mathieu plays slot corner and both safety spots, so Richards could have played that role in practice. Richards was a key special teams player.
DB Vinnie Sunseri: The Patriots special teams unit was outstanding this past week and Sunseri is a good special teams player on the practice squad. Sunseri could have helped the team all week on their coverage unit.