Damione Lewis settling in with Patriots

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. -- Veteran defensive lineman Damione Lewis did a good deed today, joining teammates Stephen Neal and Sebastian Vollmer to promote summer reading to middle school students.

The event also served as a reminder that Lewis is adjusting to life in New England.

He started to introduce himself as a Carolina Panther before quickly correcting himself.

"I had been saying that for four years, so it's just getting used to it. It's just a little different ring," he said afterwards.

Lewis is excited about what he's experienced so far in New England.

"It's been really good, I've really enjoyed it," he said. "I've been working hard with the system."

Lewis is a vying for time at right defensive end, the spot previously occupied by Richard Seymour and Jarvis Green. It is his first time playing in a 3-4 alignment after lining up at tackle in the 4-3 for St. Louis and Carolina.

One of the things that has stood out to him is how many things a defense can do out of that alignment. He's also taken note of how fans support their teams in the region.

"It's always a treat to get out and play for teams who have huge support from their fans," he said.

As for today's charity event, Lewis talked to almost 1,000 students (fifth-eighth grade) about the importance of reading. He told them how he enjoys reading to his two children each day (stories such as Cinderella) and how reading impacts everything they will do.

"Whenever we can get out and talk to kids, I am all for that," he said. "I like talking to younger children because I think they really take to what we have to say, and take it to heart. I think you have a chance to actually reach one in the crowd, three in the crowd, or however many, it's a chance to make an imprint on someone's life in a positive way."

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(espn.com)