The New England Patriots returned to the field on Wednesday for their seventh practice of training camp, marking their third consecutive day of practice. With multiple practices, including back-to-back sessions in full pads earlier in the week, the team saw several new additions to the absentee list, along with some previously full participants now being limited.
But it wasn’t just about participation and availability in Foxborough on Wednesday. Here’s a recap of the day’s events at Gillette Stadium.
Setting
Attire: Shoulder pads and shorts
Duration: Approximately 105 minutes (10:15 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. ET)
Conditions: Sunny, temperatures in the 90s
Attendance
Absent: CB Christian Gonzalez, WR Demeer Blankumsee*, RB Trayveon Williams*, OL Garrett Bradbury*, OT Yasir Durant*, DL Joshua Farmer, LB Jahlani Tavai, WR Mack Hollins (PUP), OT Vederian Lowe (PUP)
Limited: CB Carlton Davis III, LB Harold Landry, DL Christian Barmore
Departed: RB Antonio Gibson, DE Keion White, OL Sidy Sow
Several players were absent on Wednesday, including offensive linemen Garrett Bradbury and Yasir Durant, who both left Tuesday’s practice due to injuries. New absences included Demeer Blankumsee and Trayveon Williams, as the Patriots need to clear space for newly-signed center Alec Lindstorm. Sidy Sow, Antonio Gibson, and Keion White also left early, with only Sow appearing to be significantly affected.
Head coach Mike Vrabel mentioned that veterans like Harold Landry would be managed differently in terms of workload going forward, balancing health and evaluation needs. “We’re just trying to put everything together to ensure that everyone gets what they need for the season,” Vrabel said.
Takeaways
O-line in focus: With Bradbury sidelined, Ben Brown stepped in as the starting center, while rookie Jared Wilson continued to impress at left guard. Questions arose about Wilson’s snap issues affecting his position. Cole Strange also took snaps at center, marking his first appearance in that role this summer.
Campbell’s struggles: Will Campbell faced challenges after a solid start, struggling particularly during 1-on-1 drills. He was beaten several times, including by K’Lavon Chaisson during team sessions. While he managed to settle later, it was a tough day for the rookie.
Maye’s day: Quarterback Drake Maye rebounded from an inconsistent outing, demonstrating improved accuracy during practice. Despite not having many highlight plays, he maintained his composure, completing only three incomplete passes.
Kicker competition: The kicking competition saw both Parker Romo and rookie Andres Borregales performing well again, each hitting all attempted kicks. Borregales successfully made ten straight kicks following a previous rough outing.
Preview
The Patriots will practice for a fourth consecutive day on Thursday, although it will be a lighter session labeled as a walkthrough. Gates will open at 9:15 a.m. ET, with practice starting at 10:00 a.m. ET, followed by selected players available for media interviews.
