The offense was once again the story at Patriots Training Camp. Mac Jones threw the ball well and aside from a Kyle Dugger interception, had another productive day. Bailey Zappe also threw the ball well and did a great job in the pocket as well.
After a tough practice yesterday, the defense was better day today. The communication was much improved and there was more intensity.
Here are five players who impressed me and five players who depressed me today.
5 Players Who Impressed Me
Rhamondre Stevenson: Stevenson has been out most of the week for load management reasons but he came back today and was impressive running and catching the ball. Stevenson is a workhorse back so he will need to have his workload managed in camp.
Marte Mapu: Mapu proved today that he can play at all three levels and be effective. Despite being limited, he has had a strong camp and gets better everyday.
Kendrick Bourne: Bourne made two great catches including a toe drag catch along the left sideline in a red zone passing period. Bourne’s targets are starting to tick up after a slow start and he is making the most them. Bourne continues to be a tone setter for the offense.
Atonio Mafi: Mafi has been running with the first group for the last three days and he is making his reps count at guard. He is physical as a run blocker and is technically sound. He has really taken advantage of his opportunities and has caught the attention of the coaching staff.
Raleigh Webb: Webb was impressive catching the football especially when he was working with Mac. He runs good, clean routes and creates separation at the top of his routes. He will be primarily a special teamer in his career but Webb has some talent as a receiver and is making an impression.
5 Players Who Depressed Me
Jack Jones: Jones got into an altercation with Kendrick Bourne, briefly left practice after talking to Jabrill Peppers and then he returned. Jones has had a good camp but maturity and self control can be an issue at times.
Marcus Jones: Jones continues to struggle covering Demario Douglas. His height in certain match ups continues to be an issue as well. All that being said, he is a terrific athlete who will figure it out.
Tyquan Thornton: Thornton was limited yesterday. He hasn’t really showed us much in this camp and he needs to start coming along. He is far from a lock for the fourth receiver spot.
Ronnie Perkins: I focused on Perkins in this practice and he didn’t pop. The speed and athleticism are there but he needs to start showing more however. It is well documented how important this camp is for him.
Kevin Harris: Harris has been so good in this camp that when he has an off day and can’t catch a route out of the backfield, he makes this list.