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At Mattapan’s Almont Park, Patriots linebacker Anfernee Jennings had the music playing while children threw footballs, got haircuts, and picked up brand-new backpacks filled with school supplies and a signed picture.
In order to have fun and spend time in the neighborhood, Jennings invited a few of his teammates. Among those who visited were K Lavon Chaisson and fellow outside linebacker Keion White.
In addition to signing signatures and taking photos, Jennings also paused to repair a child’s shoe after noticing it was untied.
Even on a beautiful Saturday, attention to detail counts.
Of course, the ability to distribute free items is a boon. Boston has truly become a second home to me because I’m not from here, Jennings remarked. I’m grateful that I can do this and that the community accepts me for it.
Dadeville, Alabama, a tiny place that Jennings claimed reminds him of Mattapan, is where he came from modest origins. He was appreciative of individuals giving back to his community, and he is now able to assist those in Boston.
He distributed about 200 bags, ran with the children on the field for a while, then fed them lunch.
According to Mick Brunache, president of the Mattapan Patriots, it means a great deal to the children. Seeing an NFL player spend a typical day with these youngsters is encouraging because Mattapan is an area that lacks resources.
We are attempting to provide these children with that. We are attempting to instill hope in them. Our goal is to instill faith in them and support them in maintaining it. This is quite significant.
Giving back, according to Jennings, is a component of maintaining concentration in the face of uncertainty. The Patriots have just a few days until Tuesday, when they must reduce their roster to 53 players.
During New England’s preseason games, Jennings ended up playing later than anticipated and has been floated as a potential trade target.
“I want to stay in New England,” he says. The Patriots selected him in the 2020 NFL Draft, and he has played for them his entire career.
He also understands that when it comes to roster decisions, athletes don’t always get their way.
Jennings stated, “I’m spending a lot of time with my family and controlling what I can control.” For example, I am a patriot. I’d like to be present. However, I am aware of the company and haven’t given it much attention. I’m simply trying to prepare for Game 1 and controlling what I can.
According to Jennings, his preseason has gone well. He played well into the second half and recorded three sacks against the Vikings.
It was just that. Whether it was that day or the entire training camp, Jennings stated, “I’m just trying to control what I can control.” At the end of the day, I feel like I tried to do everything in my power to assist the team win, and I went in feeling like I accomplished my job. All I can do is that.
Jennings was asked what he would consider a successful season. One particular goal jumped out right away following consecutive 4–13 seasons.
Gaining victory. Jennings stated, “I just want to do what I have to do to help the team win.” All I want is to win. We obviously have our own objectives, but winning is what we really want.
Boston.com’s Khari Thompson reports on professional sports. Khari worked as a college football reporter for The Clarion Ledger in Jackson, Mississippi, prior to joining the team in 2022.
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