:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/69421002/1233321913.0.jpg)
Three members of the New England Patriots’ draft class have been included in the NFLPA Rookie Premiere Class of 2021, the players union announced on Monday. Led by first-round quarterback Mac Jones, the group also includes second-round defensive tackle Christian Barmore and fourth-round running back Rhamondre Stevenson.
Now in its 27th season, the Rookie Premiere is traditionally held each summer in Los Angeles with the goal of giving players an early insight into the business and the marketing opportunities they might experience at the NFL level. Due to the Coronavirus pandemic, the event is moved to a virtual forum this spring.
The rookies in attendance are given insight into financial planning, how to build their individual brands, and player rights. Hall of Famer Emmitt Smith is among the industry experts to share his experience and knowledge with the youngsters.
A total of 60 players were invited to the Rookie Premiere, and thus projected as “the Next Marketable Stars” by the NFLPA and its partner, trading card company Panini.
Jones, Barmore and Stevenson participating means that New England is represented at the event again after seeing no members of its draft class get invited last year. Over the last 10 years, a total of 10 players drafted by the Patriots were invited, with Barmore the only defender among them:
- 2021: QB Mac Jones, DT Christian Barmore, RB Rhamondre Stevenson
- 2020: N/A
- 2019: WR N’Keal Harry, RB Damien Harris, QB Jarrett Stidham
- 2018: RB Sony Michel
- 2017: N/A
- 2016: WR Malcolm Mitchell
- 2015: N/A
- 2014: QB Jimmy Garoppolo
- 2013: WR Aaron Dobson
- 2012: N/A
The Patriots, meanwhile, are also holding their own rookie developmental program as defined in the Collective Bargaining Agreement. The teaching event is taking place up to five days per week for a total period of seven weeks.
New England’s rookie class also features third-round defensive lineman Ronnie Perkins, fifth-round linebacker Cameron McGrone, sixth-rounders Joshua Bledsoe (safety) and William Sherman (offensive lineman) as well as seventh-round wide receiver Tre Nixon and free agent kicker Quinn Nordin.