FOXBOROUGH, Mass. -- One of the top training camp competitions for the New England Patriots has been at center, where incumbent Ryan Wendell is facing a significant challenge from nine-year veteran Dan Connolly and fourth-round draft choice Bryan Stork.
With Stork sidelined since sustaining what appeared to be a lower-leg injury on the fifth day of training camp, it’s been Connolly vs. Wendell for the last two weeks, and quarterback Tom Brady touched on why the position is so important to him.
“Center-quarterback relationship is a pretty special one. I have my hands on their butts probably more than their wives,” Brady cracked. “You know, it’s a pretty unique trust and relationship you have.”
Brady added that the switching of Connolly and Wendell in and out of the lineup during training camp has little effect on him. He said he has confidence in both, citing their work ethic.
After starting the preseason opener and playing the first half, Connolly has been taking most of the top reps this week, with Wendell rotating in from time to time.