Unsung Heroes: Marcus Cannon

Drafted weighing 358 lbs...

Marcus Cannon highlighted the group of players that are honored with the title, Practice Player of the Week.  The three others were Julian Edelman, DE Justin Francis, and LB Jeff Tarpinian. Success in practice may have bought each player some game time consideration as Cannon and Edelman both contributed in rotational roles on Sunday.

Its always a special kind of story when a guy is able to continue to play football after serious medical treatments.  Marcus Cannon slipped in the NFL Draft to #138 due to his medical future. He underwent treatments for Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma that same summer he was drafted.

The Patriots took a big chance with a guy that could classify as overweight with an uncertain playing status.  However, no one doubted his talent and size.  That's why he "slipped" into the 4th round from the middle of the 1st.

So, needless to say, we in New England are glad that this seems to be a great value pick a year later.  It is a testament to how hard Marcus has worked to get back into shape and to learn his role on the team.  He has made the most of his opportunities, and playing rotationally with Vollmer seems to be beneficial to both players.  Seabass needs the rest (back), and Cannon needs to fire as many reps as he can.

He proved to be a capable right tackle in his rookie year after missing half the season with treatments.  He is back with a vengeance in his second season, and he makes a big difference in the running game. I think Cannon is a better downhill blocker than Vollmer because of that extra beef, but Vollmer is a better pass protector.  Cannon and Solder need to learn the nuances of the pass rushers they will face, and only live game action will prepare a blocker for Darnell Dockett or Calaias Campbell.