As the New England Patriots open training camp under new head coach Mike Vrabel, there are numerous, intriguing storylines to follow. Here are 10 to keep an eye on as training camp opens on Wednesday.
1. Drake Maye’s Development: Maye’s progress under offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels and how quickly he grasps the new offense will be paramount. Maye looked comfortable in the spring but what will he look like once the pads are on. Every throw Maye attempts in training camp will be scrutinized but for me it is more about how he manages the huddle, executes the play calls and what how he handles his responsibilities at the line of scrimmage in terms of alignment and getting guys lined up.
2. The Stefon Diggs Impact: Diggs has been cleared to participate in training camp. His presence will be a massive boost to the Patriots’ receiving corps and to Drake Maye. His chemistry with Maye will be a critical storyline. Having been cleared for full participation after ACL surgery, his presence immediately elevates the offense by giving it a legitimate number one receiver.
3. Josh McDaniels’ Return as Offensive Coordinator: McDaniels’ return signals a new direction for the offense. How he implements his system, develops the young talent, and whether he can revitalize the unit after recent struggles will be a major focus.
4. The Revamped Offensive Line: The Patriots invested heavily in their offensive line, drafting Will Campbell and Jared Wilson, and signing Morgan Moses and Garrett Bradbury. The unit was among the worst in the league last season, so seeing how these pieces gel and improve pass protection and run blocking will be key. Coach Doug Marrone’s influence will also be closely watched.
5. Running Back Usage with TreVeyon Henderson: Rhamondre Stevenson is looking for a bounce-back season, but the Patriots also drafted TreVeyon Henderson in the second round. How the carries are distributed and if Henderson carves out a significant role will be a camp battle to watch.
6. Defensive Identity Under Terrell Williams: Defensive coordinator Terrell Williams is back after missing spring workouts, and he’ll be tasked with bringing together a remade defense. The team has added players like Carlton Davis III and Milton Williams, and the development of young stars like Christian Gonzalez and Keion White will be central to the defense’s success.
7. The Kicker Battle: The Patriots have a competition at kicker between sixth-round pick Andy Borregales and veteran John Parker Romo. Every kick will be scrutinized as they vie for the starting job.
8. Rookie Contributions: Rookies such as offensive tackle Will Campbell, running back TreVeyon Henderson, and wide receiver Kyle Williams will all be counted on to make a difference. They are not the only ones however. Safety Craig Woodson, defensive tackle Joshua Farmer and EDGE Brayden Swinson will also be expected to carve a role for themselves in training camp and beyond. How quickly they adapt to the NFL game will be something to monitor.
9. Veteran Players on the Bubble: With a new coaching staff and an influx of new talent, some veteran players will be fighting for their roster spots. Expect intense competition across various position groups. Several veteran who signed big extension last off-season will be under the microscope.
10. Mike Vrabel’s Leadership: This is Mike Vrabel’s first training camp as Patriots head coach. How he sets the tone, manages the team, and implements his vision will be under a microscope as he looks to turn the franchise around. We got a glimpse of what his leadership will look like this spring and we will get even more of a look this spring.
The complete Patriots training camp schedule is listed below. As always, it is subject to change.
Wednesday, July 23: 10:15 a.m. ET
Thursday, July 24: 10:15 a.m. ET
Friday, July 25: 10 a.m. ET
Sunday, July 26: 10:15 a.m. ET
Monday, July 28: 10:30 a.m. ET
Tuesday, July 29: 10:15 a.m. ET
Wednesday, July 30: 10:15 a.m. ET
Thursday, July 31: 10 a.m. ET
Friday, August 1: 6 p.m. ET (exclusive in-stadium practice for season ticket members)
Monday, August 4: 10:15 a.m. ET
Tuesday, August 5: 10 a.m. ET
Wednesday, August 6: 10:15 a.m. ET (joint practice with Washington)
Sunday, August 10: 10:15 a.m. ET