Devin McCourty named a Patriots captain

Today, the Patriots announced their captains for the 2012 season.

On offense, Tom Brady and Logan Mankins were elected. On special teams, Matthew Slater holds down his role from last year. On defense, Jerod Mayo, Vince Wilfork and Devin McCourty were named.

Obviously, McCourty's name is the one that jumps out from that list. After a stellar rookie season that had him in the running for Defensive Rookie of the Year and earned him a Pro Bowl sport, McCourty tailored off last year.

He was picked on often and with success. It didn't do anything to diminish the confidence his teammates had in him apparently.

Belichick once mentioned Devin McCourty among the likes of Ray Lewis and Lawyer Milloy of players who have a great understanding of the game of football. He noted McCourty always knew where everyone was supposed to be on the field.

This is a big honor for McCourty and surely will give him some much needed confidence heading into 2012.

Do you expect a bounce back year from him?