Detroit Lions wide receiver Golden Tate is spending the weekend participating in the American Century Celebrity Golf Championship (televised on NBC Sports) and he took some time out of his practice to talk with Willie McGinest of NFL Network.

In the interview, Tate was asked about his early impressions of working with Patricia.

“He’s a very very caring guy,” Tate said. “You can see he cares about you not only as an athlete but off the field.”

Tate went on to say he spent some one-on-one time with his new coach watching film of the New England Patriots’ offense, adding that Patricia has already made him a better player.

“We watch (Julian) Edelman and (Danny) Amendola film, just to watch them and give me hints to on what I can do better,” Tate said, naming a current and former Patriots wide receiver.

With offensive coordinator Jim Bob Cooter retained on Patricia’s staff, Tate discussed how that moves brings him a level of comfort.

“Jim Bob has done a great job of just getting the ball in my hands and once the ball gets in my hands, I think I’m just as good as any of these running backs or receivers,” Tate said.

Tate is in a contract year, and a lot of speculation has surrounded his future with the Lions, but Tate spoke glowingly of the city.

“I love the city of Detroit, I love the team and we got a heck of a quarterback,” he said.

Tate had the most to say about quarterback Matthew Stafford and the luxury of having him as a leader.

“Talent-wise, he’s right there with everyone else, and he just brings it every single day,” Tate said. “And to be the leader of an offense, it’s tough to do, so his consistency is through the roof. He’s definitely the leader of our team, but the guy has it right here (points to heart). It doesn’t matter what type of check you write him, he’s bringing it every single day to work. That’s what you want in a quarterback, and it drives the guys around him to do the same.”

Overall, Tate is in a very good position heading into the season. He has a coach who understands the value of a slot receiver, familiarity with the offense and a quarterback in his prime.

The only he lacks is contractual stability, and with a big payday on the horizon, the real question is: Will it be Detroit who spends the money for his services in 2019?