NBC Sports Boston

Joint practice sessions offer the most authentic test of training camp, pitting starters against unfamiliar schemes and fresh talent. As the New England Patriots host the Philadelphia Eagles, five key areas will reveal plenty about where both rosters stand. 

1. A.J. Brown vs. the Eagles Defensive Backs: The headline story of camp features A.J. Brown facing off against his former secondary for the first time. Brown has dominated summer practices, establishing instant chemistry with Drake Maye—particularly on deep posts and quick-hitting crossers. Going up against Philadelphia cornerbacks Quinyon Mitchell and safety Cooper DeJean provides a massive jump in competition compared to camp reserve corners. Watching how physical Brown plays against his former teammates—and whether Philadelphia’s young secondary can limit his explosive playmaking—will set the tone for the entire session. 

2. Patriots Trench Battle vs. Eagles Fronts: The real litmus test for both sides lies in the trenches. New England’s offensive line faces a formidable Philadelphia defensive interior featuring Jordan Davis and Jalen Carter. For young Patriots tackles like Will Campbell, handling Philadelphia’s deep rotation of edge pass rushers is crucial to building pocket consistency. Flip the field, and the Patriots’ defensive front—led by rookie edge rusher Gabe Jacas—gets the ultimate barometer test against Philadelphia’s elite offensive line anchored by Lane Johnson and Cam Jurgens. 

3. Front 7 vs. Saquon Barkley: Containing Saquon Barkley requires elite gap discipline, speed, and pursuit angles. Philadelphia’s star running back presents a dynamic challenge both between the tackles and out of the backfield as a receiving weapon. New England’s linebacking core and interior front seven must prove they can set firm edges, fit their run gaps cleanly, and prevent Barkley from ripping off standard-setting explosive gains in live team periods.

4. Drake Maye in Group and Team Periods: As Maye continues his development heading into his second season, team drills against Vic Fangio’s complex coverage disguises offer invaluable reps. Pay attention to Maye’s processing speed when working through 7-on-7 and 11-on-11 periods. Is he navigating the pocket calmly when pressure breaks through, or is he rushing throws? Seeing Maye make decisive, rhythm throws under simulated game pressure against a elite defense will be a prime indicator of his readiness.

5. Competitive Periods and 1-on-1 Dynamics: The 1-on-1 drills generate the highest intensity of the day in any practice.

Pass Rush 1-on-1s: Watch how New England’s interior offensive linemen hold up against straight-line power moves, and whether edge rushers like Jacas can turn the corner against Philadelphia’s veteran tackles.

Skill Position 1-on-1s: Beyond A.J. Brown, keep an eye on New England’s secondary matching up against Philadelphia’s wideouts without safety help over the top. Winning these isolated matchups defines the competitive spirit of joint practices and usually dictates which team brings the energy into the afternoon.