The NFL season is always hectic, but it becomes even more challenging when teammates start competing against each other. That’s exactly what’s happening with the New England Patriots right now. Now that the QB1 situation has concluded, the Pats’ are experiencing another challenge in their locker room between defensive ends: Keion White, a 2023 draft pick, and Deatrich Wise, a 2017 draft pick.

It started in the weight room, and Keion White accepted, saying, “If you put 400 or 500 on the bench, I want to put 400 or 500 on the bench. If you squat this, I’m going to squat this… you can’t take an off day because Deatrich is squatting the house.” White emphasized that no matter what Wise does, he’ll match it. Even on Wise’s slow days, White makes sure to push himself.

Wise acknowledged this unspoken competition, saying, “I see him over there looking, walking past, and then going and putting more weight on the bar.” Both players are good in their own areas. White currently leads in bench press with 385 pounds for 3-4 reps, while Wise dominates in squats with 545 pounds.

While the QB competition has ended, with Jacoby Brissett being named starter over Drake Maye, the rivalry between White and Wise continues. It is justified considering White has quickly become one of the Patriots‘ key players after recording 26 tackles and 1 sack in his rookie year, which is as good as Wise’s rookie year performance of 23 tackles and 5 sacks.

But looks like the competition may only be one-sided, as Deatrich Wise has shown support for his younger teammate after his wonderful performance.

Deatrich Wise praised Keion White’s performance 

Keion White has already made a name for himself, with four sacks in the first two games of the NFL season 2024. Which has earned him a spot among his teammates’ hearts. Defensive tackle Davon Godchaux praised him, “He’s a baller, man,” adding, “If they’re going to block him one-on-one, he’s going to beat them every time.” Patriots cornerback Jonathan Jones also praised White, calling him “dominant.”

Despite their competition in the weight room, Wise supported Keion, “I think we’re all seeing the same thing,” Wise said. “He’s showing a lot of versatility. He can stop the run, apply pressure from the outside, and even come inside when needed. He’s doing a great job with that.” It is good to see Wise praising his fellow DE even after the ongoing competition, which at this point is proving to be a bonding activity for the duo.