Unheralded Roster Hopeful Believes Skillset Fits Patriots’ Scheme

Oshane Ximines is inching closer to a spot on the New England Patriots' initial roster.

The under-the-radar defender, who signed with New England in April, has stood out through nine training camp practices. And Ximines, a third-round pick in the 2019 NFL Draft, believes he's a great fit for DeMarcus Covington's defense.

"Setting the edge, rushing the passer," Ximines told reporters about how his skillset aligns, per the Patriots.

Ximines, who has received reps with New England's top defense, believes the scheme is a lot different than the New York Giants'. Ximines played the previous five seasons in New York.

"I feel like I was in more of a blitz scheme with the Giants. I was doing a lot of different things," Ximines said. "I was covering a lot more and doing different things so the blitz could hit. Now it's more just going (after the quarterback), you know?"

He added: "I feel like it's been going good."

Patriots head coach Jerod Mayo name-dropped Ximines as a player who has taken a step forward this summer. Mayo also highlighted the 27-year-old as a special teams contributor.

"I just feel like I'm a guy. Whatever they need me to do, I'm going to do it," Ximines said.

Ximines and the Patriots will return to the practice fields Monday before their preseason opener at Gillette Stadium on Thursday.