New England Patriots cornerback Marcus Jones already views one newcomer as a team captain through the first three training camp practices.
That player is former Las Vegas Raiders linebacker Robert Spillane.
Throughout the spring and summer practices, Spillane has been the one leading the way on defense. The veteran defender was a part of a free agent signing frenzy by the Patriots back in March. He led the Raiders with 158 total tackles last season. It was a career-high for Spillane, who posted a team-high 148 total tackles in the previous year.
Jones has been impressed with how Spillane has commanded the defense, as well as his intensity.
“He’s a commander. You can definitely tell he’s going to be one of the captains of this team,” Jones told reporters after practice on Friday.
Marcus Jones on Robert Spillane:
“He’s a commander. You can definitely tell he’s going to be one of the captains of this team.” pic.twitter.com/Lx0bBKpaO2
— Zack Cox (@zm_cox) July 25, 2025
That’s some high praise for a new guy coming into the locker room. Spillane has worked hard behind the scenes earning the respect of his new teammates both in the locker room and on the practice field.
Hopefully, his stellar practice performances can translate onto the field for a Patriots linebacker unit that was inconsistent at times last year. The move to sign him in free agency could be looked back on as key in a potential turnaround season.
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This article originally appeared on Patriots Wire: Patriots CB Marcus Jones already views newcomer as team captain