AP Photo/Michael Dwyer

The Patriots lost to the Giants, 23-21, in their first preseason game at Gillette Stadium on Thursday night. Here are five players that stood out:

1. Mack Wilson: Wilson played limited snaps, but showed some good range. The Patriots are banking on his athleticism giving a boost to their defense.

2. Tyquan Thornton: Thornton caught a touchdown at the end of the first quarter along the back of the end zone. He finished with two catches for nine yards and the one touchdown. The touchdown catch showed a good display of Thornton fighting through sticky coverage, which was a concern when he was drafted due to his thing frame.

3.,LaBryan Ray: Ray, a defensive lineman out of Alabama, has a real shot to make the roster as an undrafted free agent. He was able to get push against the Giants offensive line in the run and pass game. New England already has Christian Barmore, Davon Godchaux and Lawrence Guy penciled in at defensive tackle, but Ray could provide a nice depth option.

4. Tre Nixon: Nixon was the last draft pick by legendary Patriots staffer Ernie Adams before his retirement in 2021. He spent last year on the practice squad, but has a chance to earn a roster spot this year. Nixon finished the night with 81 yards on four catches. The highlight for him was two great adjustments on back shoulder passes on the Patriots first drive of the third quarter, including a 36-yard catch with 14:45 left in the third. He did have a couple drops, which need to be cleaned up.

5. Shaun Wade: Wade was acquired during training camp last year in a trade with the Baltimore Ravens. In a Patriots cornerback group that has an opening on the outside, Wade has been solid in camp and looked good in coverage against the Giants. He had coverage snaps on the outside and in the slot. His best play was a pass breakup in the third quarter just outside the end zone.