23. Jerod Mayo
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The rare top 10 selection made by Bill Belichick in the NFL Draft, New England saw a vintage “chess piece” player in inside linebacker Jerod Mayo from the University of Tennessee, and someone who would embody the “do your job” culture instilled in the Patriots’ organization.
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Even reporters who followed the team were in awe of the professionalism and work ethic displayed by Mayo during his time in New England. That’s why, from day one, Mayo contributed back to his team. He was named the AP Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2008 and a first-team All-Pro in 2010, and he was selected to the Pro Bowl in 2010 and 2012.
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