Rookie defensive tackle Myron Pryor has his seen workload steadily increase as the year has progressed, which owes to his versatility and progression within the Patriots system. Coach Bill Belichick praised Pryor for ability to play in both passing and running situations.

Pryor is “kind of stocky,” Belichick said. But he is deceptively quick and plays with good balance for a tackle listed at 6-foot-1 and 310 pounds. For a rookie sixth-round pick, Pryor has been surprisingly productive, making up for second-rounder Ron Brace, who has not played since Week 2. Pryor forced a fumble and made five tackles against the Titans in his most extensive actions.

“He’s shown up in a lot of different situations, played on a lot of downs,” Belichick said. “He’s been productive against the running game. He’s been productive against the passing game. He’s made some plays in pursuit, with some range.”

Pryor has seen his playing time as he has become more accustomed to how the Patriots teach their defensive tackles. At Kentucky under coach Rich Brooks, the staff employed a different technique for defensive lineman than the Patriots use. Since the start of training camp, Pryor has become more accustomed to the new technique and more effective at it.

“The biggest thing for Myron is just experience and technique," Belichick said. "He was very well coached in Kentucky. I’m not saying that. It’s just what they did, and what Coach Brooks did down there, is a little different than the techniques we use. Now he’s adapting to some of those things we’re asking him to do, and he’s getting better at it. Through the year, he’s gotten better reads. He’s rushed better. He’s played better run technique.”