Bill Belichick most likely has a lot of respect for Chicago Bears defensive end Khalil Mack. The New England Patriots coach pretty much praises every opponent and player in press conferences.
But he made one thing clear Wednesday to reporters: Mack isn’t in the same category as Hall of Fame defensive end Lawrence Taylor.
Belichick was asked how Mack stacks up to the all-time great defensive linemen, including Taylor.
“Wait a minute, we’re talking about Lawrence Taylor now,” Belichick said. “I’m not putting anybody in Lawrence Taylor’s class. Put everybody down below that. With a lot of respect to a lot of good players, we’re talking about Lawrence Taylor.”
The Patriots play the Bears this week on “Sunday Night Football.”
Belichick served as Taylor’s coach throughout the 80s when he was the defensive coordinator for the New York Giants. In his 13-year career, Taylor recorded 132 1/2 sacks, a 10-time Pro Bowler and a two-time Super Bowl champion. He was also named the league’s Most Valuable Player in 1986.
Mack, meanwhile, has received some buzz for this season’s MVP.
After being traded from the Oakland Raiders last month, Mack has five sacks, four forced fumbles and an interception returned for a touchdown for the Bears.
• Matthew Paras can be reached at mparas@washingtontimes.com.
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