Keion White went viral on the second day of the 2023 NFL Draft. It wasn’t because he had fallen so low with his talent, but because he almost reacted in frustration to now having to play for the Patriots. Now, the defensive end explained his discreet reaction to what was arguably the best moment of his career so far.

It’s actually the moment college talent waits for their entire college years, if not their entire lives: the announcement of their own name at the NFL Draft.

But when German Sebastian Vollmer read out Keion White’s name in the second round for his former team, the New England Patriots, there was no sign of ecstasy on his part. On the contrary: corners of his mouth down, no reaction. After seconds, a handshake with a friend. At least his mother next to him was crying with happiness.

Keion White’s reaction to getting drafted by the Patriots

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– PFF College (@PFF_College) April 29, 2023

White explains reaction, “Not the type to do that “

Now the Patriots’ second pick in the draft explained himself for their somewhat guarded reaction. “You all saw it on TV, I’m a very calm person,” White said during his introduction.

“I don’t show my excitement outwardly, I just took it in stride. I haven’t talked to my family about it either,” the Georgia Tech defensive end explained.

Adding to that, the 24-year-old wasn’t expecting to be selected by the Patriots. “I hadn’t had any contact with them at all before, so it was a surprise that they picked me,” White admitted.

Patriots and White are a good fit

Nevertheless, the pass rusher is looking forward to his new role in New England. “It will be a good fit. My personality synergizes with the Patriots’.”

What he means by that? “I don’t care about the glitz-and-glamour part of football. I want to work and I want to win,” White said, “And I think the Patriots will provide just that.”

White will get his first chance to work on May 13, when the Patriots’ rookie minicamp begins.