Seven quick hits from veteran receiver Torry Holt’s Q&A with reporters today at Gillette Stadium:
First full week in the offseason program. Holt, who will wear jersey No. 84, is taking part in his first full week in the offseason program. He was in town for a few days last week and plans to be back and forth in the coming weeks.
Receiver-friendly offense. Holt views the Patriots’ offense as receiver-friendly because “there is a lot of creativity and a lot of different concepts.” He has already noticed that the team stresses details and he believes that’s what separates the best teams from the pack. He feels that approach suits him well.
Taking pride in mentoring role. Holt talked about how he feels the best way he can mentor younger receivers like Brandon Tate, Julian Edelman and Co., is by example. Jaguars receiver Mike Sims-Walker had credited Holt with mentoring him last year, and Holt relayed how he’s already spoken with Edelman about other teams now have a full year of tape to study him and prepare to defend him. His message was that Edelman now has to put himself in position to counter that. “That’s how you stay relevant, that’s how you stay consistent, and that’s how you become a good player in the National Football League,” Holt said.
Reflecting on his mentors. When it comes to those who mentored him early in his career with the Rams, Holt pointed to Isaac Bruce, Ricky Proehl, Marshall Faulk, Mike Jones and Ernie Conwell, among others. “Those were the guys that I had to show me the way,” he said.
Taking pride in versatility. Asked if he considered himself more of an inside receiver at this point of his career, Holt responded that he feels he can play anywhere. He’s felt that way throughout his career.
Surpassing his career goal. When Holt first arrived in the NFL, he said he wanted to play 10 years. This is year 12, and Holt joked that he’s now thinking 16 years. “I don’t know,” he said. “I’m going to continue to take care of my body, continue to stay focused. I love the game. I love football. First and foremost, I’m a fan of football. I respect the game. I’m going to continue to try to stay as fresh and healthy as I can. If this year works out, and they’ll have me back, I’ll be back. I’m just going to take it one year at a time and enjoy the moment, enjoy the time I’m in right now, and just see how it goes.”
Trophy finger. Holt’s middle finger on his left hand is pointed sideways, and he said he hears comments about it every day. It’s something he’s proud of. “It’s just a part of me,” he said. “It’s a symbol of my work. Over the years, it’s dislocating it, dislocating it, popping it in. … The reason I like it, it’s a symbol like I’m representing the old-school players. The old-school guys, they played with these.”