The New England Patriots are on an endless crusade to gain an edge over their opponents, whether through conventional or unconventional methods.
According to the Boston Globe, they chose the latter for their latest hire, adding martial arts expert Joe Kim to help the team with its ailing pass rush (The Pats 34 regular season sacks tied them for 16th in the NFL, and their pressure numbers ranked close to the bottom of the league). Kim, a Cleveland-area taekwondo master, has reportedly worked or consulted for 10 other NFL teams since 1992, most recently the Browns in 2016.
The gig reunites Kim and Bill Belichick, who worked together in 1992 when Belichick was head coach of the Cleveland Browns. A former US National Taekwondo Team Member and MMA expert, Kim will work alongside Patriots defensive line coach Brendan Daly, helping the defenders improve their hand-to-hand combat skills, while also coaching the defensive unit’s pass rushing linebackers.
Kim has previously worked with New England defensive tackle Danny Shelton, who last year posted a message about the experience to social media.
“Got the opportunity to work with (Master Joe Kim) this past year and felt like I really improved from my first year with his help,” Shelton said on Instagram. “Appreciate your work Master Kim and I know the best is in store for you.”