FOXBOROUGH — Cory Durden has emerged as a vocal and integral presence on the New England Patriots’ defensive front as he prepares for his second NFL season with the team. The 6-foot-4, 305-pound defensive tackle is widely recognized by teammates and head coach Mike Vrabel for his active communication on and off the field.

“I’ve got to try to shut Cory Durden up,” Vrabel said with a laugh, acknowledging the player’s constant chatter during practices and meetings. “He’s played hard and has great energy. Football means a lot to him. He’s easy to coach, willing to make corrections and come back better.” Vrabel also noted Durden’s versatility and growth, highlighting his contributions in the run game and flashes of pass rush on early downs.

Durden, 27, embraces his reputation as a “talker” and sees trash talking as part of the competitive spirit. “I’ve always been that way,” he said after Monday’s practice. “We’re some of the best players in the world. So why not have fun while you’re out there?”

Durden’s journey to a starting role with the Patriots has been marked by perseverance. After stints with the Detroit Lions, Los Angeles Rams, and New York Giants, he signed with New England in August of last year and was promoted from the practice squad to the active roster. He appeared in all 17 regular-season games in 2023, recording 30 tackles, including five for loss, and 16 quarterback hurries. He also contributed during the Patriots’ four playoff contests, adding two quarterback hits. Durden stepped into a more prominent role when starter Khyiris Tonga was sidelined last season, and with Tonga’s departure in free agency, Durden is expected to take on an increased workload in 2024.

This summer, Durden has solidified his place in the starting defensive front alongside Milton Williams and Christian Barmore, although Barmore has been limited in practice recently. Durden has been active in run defense and pass rush during fully padded sessions, reflecting a defense-wide emphasis on stopping the ground game. The Patriots notably did not allow a running back to surpass 50 rushing yards in any of their nine victories last season.

Durden said he feels he is progressing as expected and is focused on being ready for New England’s Week 1 matchup against Seattle. “I know this defense like the back of my hand,” he said. “It’s my second year in it, so I know what everybody’s doing around me. Being able to play fast is very helpful.”

Improving his pass-rushing skills remains a key goal for Durden in 2024. He aims to reach five sacks this season and has dedicated part of his offseason to training alongside elite interior linemen Quinnen Williams and Kenny Clark, both of whom have established reputations for quarterback pressure. Williams recently signed a three-year, $105.9 million contract with the Dallas Cowboys, a benchmark Durden quietly aspires to.

“That’s the goal,” Durden said with a smile, adding, “Don’t say that too loud right now. Don’t get me in trouble.” As he continues to develop, Durden looks poised to play a larger role in the Patriots’ defensive front as they seek to build on last year’s success.