After 'Huge Culture Shock,' Barkevious Mingo Ready To Fit In With New England's Winning Ways
BOSTON (CBS) -- Going from the Cleveland Browns to the New England Patriots was quite the experience for Barkevious Mingo, and the linebacker hasn't even played a snap yet.
Mingo, the sixth overall pick in 2013, was acquired by New England late last week and has been hitting the playbook hard in order to catch up to his new teammates. Even after just a few days with the Patriots, he's noticed a massive difference between the two franchises.
"It's a huge culture shock," Mingo said Monday after his first practice with his new team. "I felt like the winning spirit was making its way into Cleveland with the new coaches, but it's definitely been established here for a long time. I'm happy to be a part of it."
He has some experience as a Patriot, just not in the real world.
"Growing up, if you played Madden, you probably played with the Patriots," the 25-year-old told the large gathering of reporters around his new locker in Foxboro. He was quick to add that he won a lot whenever he selected his new team in the world of video games.
Now an actual member of the Patriots, Mingo said he'll be gunning for the quarterback, covering opposing tight ends and doing whatever else Bill Belichick asks of him. He's looking for a fresh start to his NFL career, and is excited for what the New England defensive unit could be this season.
"This team is stacked at every position; guys on the outside who can cover, interior guys who are holding gaps, and linebackers who are hitting those gaps and making big plays," he said. "I'm just excited to be a part of it."
