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[New England Patriots]

Patriots player profile: Craig Woodson has the makings of a 4-down contributor

Eric Canha-Imagn Images

Previewing the Patriots safety heading into his first season in the NFL.

The New England Patriots’ safety position was supposed to be a strength heading into 2024, but instead the unit suffered constant personnel turnover. Heading into 2025, however, there is reason for optimism again — in large part because of the team’s offseason moves meant to bolster the depth behind projected starters Kyle Dugger and Jabrill Peppers.

One big part of those efforts was selecting Cal’s Craig Woodson in the fourth round of the draft.

Hard facts​

Name: Craig Woodson

Position: Safety

Jersey number: 31

Opening day age: 24 (2/20/2001)

Measurements: 6’0 1/8”, 200 lbs, 75 1/4” wingspan, 30 1/2” arm length, 8 3/4” hand size, 4.45s 40-yard dash, 7.06s 3-cone drill, 4.20s short shuttle, 36” vertical jump, 10’7” broad jump, 13 bench press reps, 8.75 Relative Athletic Score

Experience​

NFL: New England Patriots (2020-) | College: California (2019-24)

Initially a wide receiver and running back at South Grand Prairie High School in Grand Prairie, TX, Woodson switched to defense ahead of his junior season and never looked back. He eventually was rated as a three-star recruit and picked up scholarship offers from both FBS and FCS schools. After initially committing to UTSA, he changed directions and enrolled at Cal in July 2019.

Woodson spent six years in Berkeley, with his career one of two halves. He started out as a redshirt, saw his second season disrupted by Covid-19, and missed his third altogether due to a knee injury. When he returned in 2022, he promptly became a starter in the secondary; he started 38 straight games over his last three seasons and was named all-conference each time (honorable mention All-Pac 12 2022 and 2023, third-team All-ACC 2024).

When he left school to join the NFL, he had 46 games with 40 starts on his résumé, as well as five interceptions (including one pick-six), three forced fumbles and a blocked punt. Woodson was picked 106th overall by the Patriots in the fourth round of the 2025 draft.

Scouting report​

Strengths: Woodson wore several hats during his time at Cal, playing all over the Golden Bears’ secondary as well as on special teams. His versatility should translate to the NFL too, and allow him to contribute on up to four downs from early on in his pro career — especially because he has already been praised for his work ethic behind the scenes in his short time in New England.

Craig Woodson defending runs/screens pic.twitter.com/AUtMixuesY

— Taylor Kyles (@tkyles39) April 28, 2025​

Woodson has had good production aligning close to the box, in large part due to his quick processor and natural instincts. He reads plays quickly, and has the fluidity in his movements as well as the spatial awareness to react on the fly. He finds his way to the ball carrier through traffic, and is a technically sound wrap-up tackler.

Craig Woodson in coverage over the middle pic.twitter.com/JUxCFvsOef

— Taylor Kyles (@tkyles39) April 28, 2025​

In coverage, Woodson has shown good timing attacking the ball in the air and reaching past intended targets to register a pass breakups. He also rarely finds himself out of position or overwhelmed by route combinations, misdirection, etc., and trusts his eyes and understanding of both defense and offense. Frankly, he is a “does everything well”-type of player whose football IQ is making up for some of his limitations.

Weaknesses: Woodson is a serviceable overall athlete, but he lacks standout traits that would give him an edge over his competition. He also has some limitations as far as his length is concerned, with his wingspan and arm length (as well as his hand size) below average. Those, in turn, might hinder him at the pro level when asked to get off blocks in the run game, attack receivers’ chests in press man coverage, and contest receptions at the catch point.

He also is a sound but not necessarily violent tackler when coming downhill, and his ball production does not stand out despite five career interceptions; he seemingly left some plays on the field. In addition, he already turned 24, making him a comparatively old rookie seemingly closer to his developmental ceiling.

2024 review​

Stats: 13 games (13 starts) | 788 defensive snaps, 68 special teams snaps | 70 tackles, 8 missed tackles (10.3%), 2.5 TFLs | 38 targets, 27 catches allowed (71.1%), 243 yards, 1 TD, 2 INTs, 9 PBUs | 2 quarterback pressures (1 hit, 1 hurry) | 1 penalty

Season recap: Coming off back-to-back strong seasons, Woodson picked up where he left off and produced another quality campaign to close out his college career. Starting all 13 games as a do-it-all safety who aligned deep or closer to the line of scrimmage, he was one of the Golden Bears’ most consistent defenders throughout the year.

Steady both on and off the field — he represented his team as a game day captain on multiple occasions — Woodson did have several highlight moments, too. He registered interceptions against Oregon State and Wake Forest, with the latter preserving Cal’s first conference win of the season, and ranked first on the team with nine pass breakups. While not a highlight-reel player per se, he made his presence felt on the regular.

In addition to his defensive efforts, Woodson also saw plenty of special teams snaps. Even though he was not as extensively used in the game’s third phase as in previous seasons, he still saw snaps on three units (kickoff coverage, punt return, field goal/extra point block).

The ever-reliable Woodson was named third-team All-ACC after the season and furthermore received an invitation to the Senior Bowl.

2025 preview​

Position: Multiple safety | Ability: Depth player/Role player | Contract: Signed through 2028

What will be his role? Woodson has shown an ability to play close to the box as a strong safety type, as the centerfielder in single-high coverages, and in split-field looks. While it remains to be seen just how much the Patriots will put on his plate early on, he projects as a package third or fourth option to complement the likes of the aforementioned Kyle Dugger and Jabrill Peppers as well as Jaylinn Hawkins and possibly Marcus Epps. He also is expected to see an uptick in special teams snaps again heading into 2025.

What is his growth potential? As noted above, Woodson is on the older side for a rookie player; he turned 24 in February. Nonetheless, there is room for development from both a physical and a mental perspective. If he can grow in both of those areas, he has the potential to become a starter or key rotational player in the secondary before his rookie contract is up.

Does he have positional versatility? By now, you probably know that Woodson can do a bit of everything on both defense and special teams. Obviously, the Patriots might not ask him to play on all four downs right out of the gate, but he definitely has the makings of an every-down contributor who can help out against the pass and the run as well as in different situations in the kicking game.

What is his salary cap situation? The most recent Patriots draft pick to sign his rookie deal, Woodson is carrying a $1.107 salary cap number into the 2025 season. He has a $840,000 base salary that is accompanied by a fully-guaranteed signing bonus proration worth $266,614. Given that the sum of those numbers is high enough to qualify for Top 51 status, his entire cap hit is counted against New England’s books.

How safe is his roster spot? During his time as Tennessee Titans head coach, all five of Mike Vrabel’s fourth-round draft picks made the initial 53-man roster. While there is no guarantee that Woodson will join them, his outlook is indeed very good. Unless hampered by injury, the expectation is that the youngster will be part of New England’s active roster come September 7.

Summary: Woodson may have been one of the Patriots’ more polarizing draft picks this spring, but there is no denying he is an intriguing player. Will he ever develop into a starter and/or core special teamer? That remains to be seen, but he has shown that he can play at a consistent level regardless of assignment and has the work ethic necessary to will his way into the rotation if need be.

What do you think about Craig Woodson heading into the 2025 season? Please head down to the comment section to share your thoughts.

Source: https://www.patspulpit.com/2025/7/4...odson-profile-scouting-report-2025-nfl-season

 

[New England Patriots]

Patriots player profile: D.J. James might have some untapped potential

Photo by Fred Kfoury III/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Previewing the Patriots cornerback heading into his second season in New England.

The New England Patriots’ cornerback group underwent some change this offseason, but a significant portion of the depth chart will look the same as it did in 2024. One part of the group then as now is second-year man D.J. James.

Hard facts​

Name: D.J. James

Position: Cornerback

Jersey number: 30 (b)

Opening day age: 24 (3/5/2001)

Measurements: 5’11 5/8”, 184 lbs, 72 3/8” wingspan, 31” arm length, 8 3/8” hand size, 4.42s 40-yard dash, 7.28s 3-cone drill, 4.41s short shuttle, 38” vertical jump, 10’6” broad jump, 5.82 Relative Athletic Score

Experience​

NFL: Seattle Seahawks (2024), New England Patriots (2024-) | College: Oregon (2019-21), Auburn (2022-23)

Coming out of Spanish For High School in Spanish Fort, AL, James garnered considerable interest as a three-star recruit. He initially committed to Mississippi State over offers from Alabama, Tennessee and Florida, among others, but eventually decided to change course and head to Oregon. He ended up spending three seasons with the Ducks, wearing the No. 0 jersey that later went to future Patriots first-round draft pick Christian Gonzalez. That jersey on James’ shoulders saw action in 32 games and was on the receiving end of two interceptions.

During his third year in Eugene, James decided to enter the transfer portal. He later moved to Auburn, where he spent the final two years of his college career and added 24 more games as well as three interceptions — including one pick-six — to his résumé. He also was named second-team All-SEC during his 2022 redshirt junior campaign.

James ended up getting selected in the sixth round of the 2024 NFL Draft by the Seahawks.

Scouting report​

Strengths: James is a fluid mover who accelerates quickly out of his stance and complements his explosiveness with good straight-line speed and change of direction. In man coverage, he is competitive throughout the stem of the route; he patiently keeps his hips square and can match patterns in the open field. He also has shown a feel for undercutting routes or taking advantage of sloppy technique by his opponents. He is a competitive at the catch point and a naturally versatile and physical player; James can be a factor against the pass and the run, and both split out wide and in the slot.

Weaknesses: James has solid speed and a feisty demeanor, but his lack of size, length and play strength is a limiting factor. He has a hard time getting off blocks in the run game, and is hit and miss when it comes to getting into receivers’ chests in press man. His generally aggressive play style also tends to work against him at times, resulting in questionable angles or missed tackles as well as a loss of leverage against subtle fakes from receivers.

2024 review​

Stats: 0 games

Season recap: One of two Auburn cornerbacks drafted by the Seahawks, James entered the NFL as the 192nd overall selection in the sixth round of the 2024 draft. Like his former teammate Nehemiah Pritchett, he too was placed on the non-football injury list ahead of training camp but eventually activated shortly thereafter. Once in camp, he competed for a backup spot in the slot.

The Seahawks gave him plenty of opportunities both in practice and preseason to earn that role. However, James proved himself inconsistent especially during the exhibition schedule: playing 153 snaps, opposing quarterbacks went 8-of-9 for 84 yards with two touchdowns targeting him. He also missed a costly tackle attempt leading to another TD and was penalized twice.

As a consequence of his uneven-at-best performance during the summer, James was waived ahead of the roster cutdown deadline and left Seattle. He eventually joined the Patriots’ practice squad two weeks into the regular season, and spent the rest of his rookie campaign there without seeing any playing time. He was retained by the organization via a reserve/futures contract after the season.

2025 preview​

Position: Multiple CB | Ability: Depth player/Role player | Contract: Signed through 2025

What will be his role? James may not be a starter at this stage in his career, but his ability to line up both inside and outside might help him carve out a role as a backup at multiple positions or a rotational nickel and dime defender. As such, he will compete for a roster or practice squad spot against similarly versatile players such as Alex Austin or Isaiah Bolden.

What is his growth potential? James was projected to come off the board as early as the late third round in last year’s draft, but eventually remained unselected until late in Round 6. While the NFL might not have been as hot on him as media evaluators and forecasters, there is no denying he offers some talent. If he can overcome his size limitations — a big if, to be honest — he could become a starter-level contributor further down the line.

Does he have positional versatility? James spent most of his rookie season in the slot, but has extensive experience on the outside from his time at Oregon and Auburn. He also appeared on five kicking game units during his rookie preseason in Seattle.

What is his salary cap situation? The futures contract James signed with the Patriots in January came with a base salary of $840,000 — a number that simultaneously functions as his cap hit for the 2025 season. With it not large enough for Top 51 status and no guarantees in the pact, James currently has not impact on New England’s books.

How safe is his roster spot? Despite James possibly offering some untapped potential, his spot on the Patriots’ roster is anything but secure. The team, after all, has several players vying for a limited number of roster spots behind the projected top three of Christian Gonzalez, Carlton Davis and Marcus Jones. Given his relatively quiet offseason, he currently appears to be on the outside looking in.

Summary: The Patriots’ cornerback competition projects to be an intense one this offseason, and James should get every opportunity to prove himself worthy of a spot on the team. And despite his uncertain projection at this point, as well as the weaknesses mentioned above, the team’s coaching staff might see something in him worth developing — just like its previous iteration did in 2024.

What do you think about D.J. James heading into the 2025 season? Please head down to the comment section to share your thoughts.

Source: https://www.patspulpit.com/2025/7/3...james-profile-scouting-report-2025-nfl-season

 

[New England Patriots]

Sunday Patriots Notes: Improved defense trending toward breakthrough

Photo by Jessica Rinaldi/The Boston Globe via Getty Images

Notes on the Patriots’ defense, interest from the CFL, and more.

The NFL is in its slowest period, but that does not mean there is nothing to talk about when it comes to the league and the New England Patriots. Granted, the exciting days of training camp are still a few weeks away, but the pro football world still does not keep spinning.

So, with that said, let’s clean out the notebook from the week that was. Welcome to the latest edition of our Sunday Patriots Notes.

Defensive breakthrough​

When forecasting what must go right for the New England Patriots to take a step forward as a team this season, much of the focus naturally shifts to the offensive side of the football.

Josh McDaniels is back on the sideline to coordinate the unit. One of the league’s worst offensive lines has been remodeled — highlighted by adding No. 4 overall pick Will Campbell at left tackle. Stefon Diggs headlines a new-look group of pass catchers. Then the most important: Drake Maye ready to take a step forward in Year 2.

But, it’s also important to not overlook the defensive side of the football.

While New England’s defense battled injuries last season, the unit fell off drastically ending the year ranked 30th in DVOA and 22nd in scoring defense (24.5 PPG). A turnaround on that side of the football will also be key toward getting back to the playoffs, and the first steps towards that goal came this offseason in free agency.

Entering free agency with a league-high amount of cap space, New England made key investment to add a quick influx of talent to their defense. That included cornerback Carlton Davis and linebacker Robert Spillane before landing perhaps the biggest fish in all of free agency in Milton Williams — signing the defensive tackle to a four-year, $104 million contract.

All three players are now projected to make key impacts along all three levels, and are not the only additions as well. It’s part of a makeover that led The Athletic’s Ted Nguyen to naming the Patriots’ defense a unit that could breakout in 2025.

“The Patriots just had one of their worst defensive seasons since at least 1999. The 2024 defense had the worst defensive expected points added per drive for the franchise since 1999, the furthest I can go back for EPA stats,” Nguyen wrote in 5 defenses primed to break out. “That’s bleak, but the Patriots defense could make a major bounce back this season thanks to major free-agent acquisitions, a new defensive coordinator, and more importantly, the return of defensive tackle Christian Barmore.”

Up front, Williams will join forces with a now healthy Barmore which could create one of the more disruptive interior duos in football. They’ll then be anchored by Keion White and fellow free agent additions Harold Landry and K’Lavon Chaisson along the edges.

As the cerebral Spillane will then hold down the second-level behind them, the addition of Davis to pair with All-Pro Christian Gonzalez also gives New England one of the top secondary duos in football.

“Hopefully we can just play cat coverage. Like, ‘You got that cat, I got this cat,’ and we can go to work,” Vrabel said back in March.

Throughout the spring, the new-look defense showed their promise with several disruptive days at all three levels. It’s the start of what Vrabel and defensive coordinator Terrell Williams hope is a complete defensive turnaround — something Nguyen can see on the forecast.

“With two excellent corners, a strong four-man rush, and two playmaking safeties (Jabrill Peppers and Kyle Dugger), the Patriots are well-built on every level. This could be the unit that makes the biggest jump this season,” Nguyen said.

CFL interest​

For the first time in league history, the Canadian Football League required each team to release their Negotiation List; which the league defines as “up to 45 players who are currently either unsigned or are playing in the NFL, in another professional league, or in college. Teams hold exclusive CFL negotiating rights with players on their lists, and those players can be added, traded or removed at any time.”

Two current Patriots were included as wide receiver Efton Chism III and quarterback Ben Wooldridge were named to the BC Lions and Calgary Stampeders lists, respectively.

Chism, who was one of the spring standouts, and Wooldrigde will continue to make a push for a roster/practice squad spot in New England during training camp, with the CFL now a backup possibility.

Always competing​

Several Patriots’ players have not been shy in sharing their work away from the facility over the last few weeks. That has included Christian Gonzalez and several DBs at the ‘Pro Retreat’ in Texas, and Keion White, Milton Williams, and other d-lineman at the ‘Sack Summit.’

Several other players like Kyle Williams, DeMario Douglas, Christian Barmore, Chism, and more have also shared their individual work online. Stefon Diggs even made sure his new Patriot helmet made it to vacation in France.

And while Drake Maye rightfully put the football away on his honeymoon in St. Lucia, the competition did not stop as Maye found a trio on his resort to play tennis with. “The most competitive person I know,” his wife, Ann-Michael Maye, captioned the video.

Episode Two​

The Patriots provided their fans an exclusive behind-the-scenes look of the first stage of their offseason in epsiode one of the team-created “Forged in Foxborough” series. The team then announced this week that epsiode two will be released on July 18th, which is set to focus on New England’s first offseason program under Mike Vrabel.

: Episode 2 coming 7/18

https://t.co/fZzderpzxB + Patriots YouTube@MassGenBrigham | #NEPats pic.twitter.com/Nto7OSoGlR

— New England Patriots (@Patriots) July 1, 2025​

Setting up the week ahead​

Despite the calendar flipping from June to July and training camp being only four weeks away, there is not much going on in the NFL these days. As a natural consequence, our coverage here at Pats Pulpit will also be comparatively toned down.

Of course, the NFL is anything but predictable which means that news can always be right around the corner. So, make sure to tune back in to stay up to date, follow our Patriots player profile series, or join our weekly debates.

Source: https://www.patspulpit.com/2025/7/6/24462269/sunday-patriots-notes-improved-defense-breakthrough

 

[New England Patriots]

The Top 10 Patriots Moments of 2024: No. 1

Eric Canha-USA TODAY Sports

Our offseason countdown concludes with the Number One Patriots Moment of 2024!

July 4. The greatest day on the American calendar. It represents the day that our tiny nation, just a few scattered colonies on the east coast of this great continent, declared independence from oppression and the right to live their lives they way they wanted, free from tyranny.

And while my independence from this countdown of the Top 10 New England Patriots Moments of 2024 is dwarfed by what would transpire in the years following 1776, I’m quite happy to be free from it. Last season sucked. So, I’m very happy to be kicking off the best long weekend of the year by closing it out in style.

But first, for the last time, the list so far:

10. Jerod Mayo out, Mike Vrabel in.
9. Drake Maye hits Austin Hooper for a 38-yard TD on 4th-and-15 against the Miami Dolphins.
8. Joey Slye nails a 63-yard field goal to close out the half against the San Francisco 49ers.
7. A free play gets DeMario Douglas into the end zone vs. the Los Angeles Chargers.
6. A nine-sack day helps list the Patriots over the Chicago Bears.
5. A late 70-yard touchdown drive hands the Jets their fifth consecutive loss, and the Patriots their second win.
4. The Patriots stun the Bengals on opening weekend.
3. Drake Maye’s throws his first touchdown pass to Kayshon Boutte against the Texans.
2. Drake Maye hits Rhamondre Stevenson in the end zone with no time left on the clock to tie the game against the Titans.

At Number One, we have what I’m guessing will be the only thing any of us will actually remember about the 2024 Patriots season.

1. The Patriots draft Drake Maye​

For the vast majority of the 21st century, draft day wasn’t much to celebrate around New England. The Patriots were almost always picking at the very tail end of the round, which meant that any of the big names and hot prospects were long gone by the time their turn rolled around. On the off chance that there was still a highly-touted player still on the board, you could count on Bill Belichick to trade out of the first round, acquire more picks, and then draft a DB in the second round instead.

It wasn’t an overly entertaining viewing experience, and as all the fans of the other teams in the NFL celebrated their new quarterback or stud receiver, most Patriots fans were performing a Google search to learn about a kid whose name they didn’t even know prior to the NFL Draft. The tradeoff for an unsexy April was a deep playoff run and six Lombardi Trophies, so nobody complained all that much.

However, all good things must come to an end, and following a disastrous 2023 season which saw the Patriots without a quarterback or a head coach for the first time in forever, New England sat with the third overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. It was their highest pick since 1993, when they took Drew Bledsoe first overall. Paired with that high draft pick was a brand new coaching regime; the Jerod Mayo era in New England had officially begun. How Mayo was going to approach the draft was anybody’s guess, but what was certain was that this team needed talent at almost every level.

The 2024 draft class was loaded with strong players, particularly at the quarterback position — hands down New England’s top priority. The hottest offseason debate was which of the top three QB prospects — Jayden Daniels, Drake Maye, and Caleb Williams — would be going first overall. The Bears and Commanders had picks one and two respectively, and both teams also needed quarterbacks. So most experts had the first three picks in the draft as quarterbacks; it was just a matter of the order.

However, there were a number of other teams also in the market for a QB that weren’t selecting as high as the Bears, Commanders, or Patriots. The Falcons, Vikings, Broncos, Colts, and others all had QB on their list of needs. So a blockbuster draft day trade was definitely on the table.

But there were no trades, at least not into the top three, and all three teams drafted a quarterback with their first pick. Caleb Williams ended up going to Chicago first overall, which most people expected. As for who Washington would pick, that was more of a mystery. Reports had them high on both Daniels and Maye, but they ended up taking Jayden Daniels at No. 2. That left the Patriots sitting at three, to either draft Drake Maye or trade down to acquire more picks with which to round out the roster.

We all know what Belichick would have done. But not Mayo and Eliot Wolf. They stayed where they were and took Maye third overall. The Patriots had the quarterback of the future.

We all know the rest. Jacoby Brissett started the season, but Drake Maye finished it. And while he experienced the usual growing pains that accompany a rookie quarterback thrust into the hardest job in all of sports, there were times when Maye looked transcendent. He showed a level of vision, pocket presence, and football IQ that belied his age or experience level. His 2024 season was far from perfect, but it could have been a whole lot worse. The 2024 Patriots had one of the worst rosters in the NFL, and on multiple occasions Drake Maye made something out of nothing. He was the only element of last season that gave any of us any real hope or excitement, and he’s a big part of the reason why we’re excited for 2025 and beyond. So drafting Maye was an easy choice for the best moment of last year.

Check out some 2024 Drake Maye highlights here.

Maybe this will all backfire on me. This isn’t the first time I have had the Patriots drafting a quarterback this high on my list, and that one didn’t end too well. But I don’t know; Maye just feels a little different. It’s far too soon to see which of these three teams got the best quarterback of the 2024 NFL Draft. All have shown promise, with Daniels leading his team all the way to the NFC Championship Game last year. But I like our chances with Maye. I love what he brings to the table, and I can’t wait to see what he’ll do under Mike Vrabel with a strong O-line and competent receivers at his disposal.

And now, finally, I can put this season to bed. Why I decided to do this, I’ll never know. But when you start something, you finish it, and I’m happy to be finishing my countdown with what I’m hoping will represent the moment this team began their climb back to the top of the league. The good news is that we don’t have much longer to wait to see whether or not we’re trending in the right direction.

Thanks for reading, everyone — even the people who hated reading this series so much that they read every single moment on the countdown and didn’t waste any time telling me that I’m wasting my time by wasting their time. I appreciate all of you as well.

Time for a few weeks off, then it’s face-first into training camp and preseason. Opening Day is going to be here before we know it, so I hope you all get a nice chance to relax before the madness starts.

Go Patriots.

Source: https://www.patspulpit.com/2025/7/3/24459626/the-top-10-patriots-moments-of-2024-no-1

 

[New England Patriots]

New England Patriots links 7/07/25 - PFF not sold on renovated receiver room

WRs | Photo by Jessica Rinaldi/The Boston Globe via Getty Images

Daily news and links for Monday

TEAM TALK

• Patriots Unfiltered: 2025 Expectations, Offseason topics; Benchmarks for Drake Maye, the offense/defense, coaches and season records. Plus, topics like all-time sports brawls, offensive coordinators and more! (2 hours)

LOCAL LINKS

• Mike Reiss shares some quick-hit weekend thoughts: Why the Patriots drafted long-snapper Julian Ashby; Steelers matchup given ‘elite’ pricing; Jonnu Smith post Patriots; Playoff odds; More.
• Steve Balestrieri’s Sunday Patriots News: McDaniels the most intriguing in 2025.
• Ian Logue’s Patriots News: Undrafted WR Efton Chism III has options, Interesting note on McDaniels. “Belichick has told people the only people he has been around that can coach every position is [Nick] Saban and McDaniels.”
• Ian Logue’s Patriots News: Insider talks potential surprise WR trades, Undrafted RB Lan Larson making the roster?
• Brian Hines’ Sunday Patriots Notes: Improved defensive unit trending toward breakthrough.
• Alex Barth explores the situations to determine if any current NFL holdouts might become available for the Pats.
• Matthew Schmidt was perplexed why Drake Maye was snubbed from a “25 players under 25” list — not even as an honorable mention, which featured 22 other names.
• Matthew Schmidt relays Ted Johnson voicing some serious concerns about QB Drake Maye. “If you look at all the interceptions, and only one win last year, I understand the trepidation. I think he’s a special player. I think he has special traits. But I do wonder if he has the mental aptitude, or the mental skill set to match what his natural talents are.” /In related news, I have some concerns about Ted Johnson.
• Danny Jaillet notes the Patriots’ renovated WR room gets destroyed in PFF rankings.
• Danny Jaillet relays Mike Reiss naming WR Efton Chism III as the Patriots’ surprise player in the offseason.
• Michael DeVito explains how early signs indicate Keion White could be the Patriots’ 2025 game-wrecker.
• Michael DeVito highlights ESPN’s Matt Bowen with an interesting free-agent offensive guard option still available for the Patriots: Will Hernandez. “A knee injury cut Hernandez’s 2024 season short after just five games. The veteran guard had a pass block win rate over 94% in each of the past three seasons, and he’s a physical run blocker. His footwork on contact and his power pop on tape. At age 30, he could still be a starter.”
• Sara Marshall discusses a proposed trade offer involving T.J. Watt that instantly turns the Pats into AFC sleeper.
• Pat Lane and Matt St. Jean continue their series: 21 Wins, 21 Years Later: An iconic snow game and a snowy blowout. /This series is excellent.
• Meadow Barrow highlights Cam Newton defending Arch Manning’s decision to remain at Texas as a backup QB.

NATIONAL NEWS

• Moe Moton (Bleacher Report) Every team’s most promising building block entering 2025. Patriots: ... wait for it ... QB Drake Maye. “In 2025, Maye should be able to put his arm talent and improvisational skills on full display.”; More.
• Joseph Zucker (Bleacher Report) ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler says Drake Maye ‘Looks like an NFL QB now’ and latest on Stefon Diggs.
• Moe Moton (Bleacher Report) 1 X-Factor that can significantly impact each NFL Division race in 2025. AFC East: Josh McDaniels’ play-calling impact on Patriots QB Drake Maye.
• Mike Florio (ProFootballTalk) Stephon Gilmore reflects on moment Bill Belichick almost made him cry.
• Charean Williams (ProFootballTalk) Stephon Gilmore wants to play in 2025, but it has to be the “right situation”
• Mike Florio (ProFootballTalk) Which teams are legitimately in Super Bowl window for 2025? “Since 2017, it’s been the Eagles three times, the 49ers twice, the Rams twice, and the Bucs once. For the AFC, it’s been only the Patriots, Chiefs, and Bengals. That’s it. Over eight seasons, seven total franchises have taken the 16 total Super Bowl berths.”
• Gary Davenport (Bleacher Report) The NFL’s most overpaid player at every position. Running Back: Rhamondre Stevenson. “It’s not easy to make big bucks in the backfield in today’s NFL. There are only seven running backs in the league with an average annual salary of $10 million or more—and those backs all have resumes with multiple seasons of high-end production. Rhamondre Stevenson of the New England Patriots isn’t quite making $10 million a season. But he still got a four-year, $36 million extension last year. The question is why.”
• Mike Florio (ProFootballTalk) Which quarterbacks are on the hot seat in 2025? No Pats.
• Jeremy Fowler (ESPN) Execs, coaches, scouts rank NFL’s top 10 running backs for 2025. No Pats.
• Gilberto Manzano (SI) 32 Teams in 32 Days: Time for Chargers, Justin Herbert to take the next step.
• Bobby Kownack (NFL.com) Top 100 Players of 2025, Nos. 100-91. No Pats.
• Staff (ESPN) Who fell out of the NFL top 10 best player rankings in 2025?
• Staff (ESPN) Wimbledon 2025: Andrew Garfield, John Cena in attendance in London. Drake Maye included.
• Jordan Raanan (ESPN) A decade later, Jason Pierre-Paul reflects on Fourth of July accident that changed his life. /We were talking about him on the 4th.
• Brent Sobleski (Bleacher Report) NFL’s top 5 most improved position groups before training camp. No Pats.

Source: https://www.patspulpit.com/2025/7/7...07-25-pff-not-sold-on-renovated-receiver-room

 

[New England Patriots]

Patriots player profile: TreVeyon Henderson is a big play waiting to happen

Photo by John Tlumacki/The Boston Globe via Getty Images

Previewing the Patriots running back heading into his first NFL season.

The New England Patriots went all-offense on the first two days of the 2025 NFL Draft. Among the four players they brought aboard between Rounds 1 and 3 was one of the most exciting running back prospects in the class.

With the 38th overall pick in the second round of the draft, the Patriots selected TreVeyon Henderson out of Ohio State.

Hard facts​

Name: TreVeyon Henderson

Position: Running back

Jersey number: 32

Opening day age: 22 (10/22/2002)

Measurements: 5’10 1/8”, 202 lbs, 76 1/8” wingspan, 30 3/4” arm length, 9 1/2” hand size, 4.43s 40-yard dash, 38 1/2” vertical jump, 10’8” broad jump, 8.87 Relative Athletic Score

Experience​

NFL: New England Patriots (2025-) | College: Ohio State (2021-24)

A multi-sport athlete and two-way player on the gridiron, Henderson was a superstar at Hopewell High School in Hopewell, VA. Originally a wide receiver and defensive back, he took over as the Blue Devils’ starting running back as a junior in 2019 and promptly was named Virginia’s high school player of the year. Even though he did not play in 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic, he was a highly sought-after recruit.

The five-star picked up almost three dozen scholarship offers, including from most of the biggest programs in the nation. His final choice came down to Ohio State or Oklahoma, and he decided to pick the Buckeyes as one of their top recruits in 2021. Henderson went on to spend his entire four-year college career in Columbus.

In total, he saw action in 47 games with 38 starts, registering a combined 4,614 scrimmage yards and scoring 48 touchdowns. He carried the ball 590 times for 3,761 yards and 42 scores while also adding 77 catches for 853 yards and six more TDs. Henderson was named All-Big Ten in all four of his seasons at Ohio State: he was a first-team selection in 2023, a second-team pick in 2021 and a honorable mention in both 2022 and 2024.

The Patriots picked Henderson up in the second round of this year’s draft. He was the fourth running back off the board, getting drafted two picks after his Ohio State teammate Quinshon Judkins.

Scouting report​

Strengths: One of the most productive players in Ohio State history, Henderson has a proven and impressive track record going back to his days as a high school player. He has been able to put up standout numbers due to his explosive skillset: he accelerates quickly and is able to maintain his top speed well, making it difficult for opposing defenders to chase him down. He combines his speed with contact balance and lower-body flexibility; he is quick enough to step away from tackle attempts or juke opponents 1-on-1 in the open field.

RB TreVeyon Henderson on power schemes vs:
- Penn State
- Oregon
- Tennessee
- Notre Dame pic.twitter.com/mlzofhAn3a

— Taylor Kyles (@tkyles39) April 25, 2025​

Henderson’s compact build and natural athletic ability make him a fit for both zone and power schemes, and also allow him to be used in a variety of ways. Besides being a productive runner, he also has stood out as a receiver on multiple occasions. He tracks the ball well in the air even on downfield throws and has the concentration and body control to haul in over-the-shoulder passes without losing much of his stride.

RB TreVeyon Henderson targets vs:
- Penn State
- Oregon
- Tennessee
- Notre Dame pic.twitter.com/Ov5Ehi2743

— Taylor Kyles (@tkyles39) April 26, 2025​

One of Henderson’s best traits is his blocking, especially compared to other running backs entering the NFL: he was the best blocking back in the entire 2025 draft, with nobody really coming close to his pro-readiness in that area. He uses his leverage well and violently engages with defenders, oftentimes putting them on their backs due to his firm base and stout upper body. He reads and reacts well to what the defense is throwing at him in pass pro.

RB TreVeyon Henderson blocking vs:
- Penn State
- Oregon
- Tennessee
- Notre Dame pic.twitter.com/2CFpCxWZlB

— Taylor Kyles (@tkyles39) April 25, 2025​

Henderson also has been praised for his leadership and ability to stay focused despite a change in role in 2024. He also entered the NFL with only two fumbles on his college résumé — both of which recovered by Ohio State — and none over the course of his 2023 and 2024 campaigns.

Weaknesses: While still only 22, Henderson has plenty of wear on his tires as well as an injury history that includes eight combined missed games over the 2022-2023 stretch of his college career. Not necessarily a physically imposing running back, he might be better suited for a rotational role rather than one as a full-time bell cow.

He also is not the most creative runner behind the line of scrimmage and is seemingly at his best within structure and the offensive line setting him up both in zone and man blocking. Additionally, his downfield receiving production and route tree beyond the line has been limited in college; he is, to a degree, a work in progress as a receiving back despite the physical skill to become a solid player in that area.

2024 review​

Stats: 16 games (9 starts) | 490 offensive snaps, 11 special teams snaps | 144 carries, 1,016 yards (7.1 yards/carry), 10 TDs | 30 targets, 27 catches (90%), 284 yards, 1 TD | 3 pressures surrendered (3 hurries) | 8 kickoff returns, 67 yards (8.4 yards/return) | 1 penalty

Season recap: Having started 29 straight games coming into his 2024 senior season, Henderson saw his role within the Buckeyes’ offense change. With the aforementioned Quinshon Judkins joining the team as a transfer from Ole Miss, the team opted to use more of a rotational approach — one that resulted in Henderson starting only nine of his 16 games, including just two over the second half of the season.

Despite being put in a somewhat unfamiliar situation as far as his starting role was concerned, Henderson still played his most offensive snaps since his freshman campaign. He also had his best statistical season since his first year as a Buckeye in 2021.

Averaging just under 31 snaps, he touched the ball 10.7 times per game and finished with exactly 1,300 yards as well as 11 touchdowns. While not as productive as Judkins in terms of touches, rushing yards or touchdowns, Henderson was Ohio State’s most productive back in both volume and efficiency: he led the team in scrimmage yards while averaging 7.6 yards per touch — the highest such number of his career.

In general, Henderson was a big play just waiting to happen. He gained at least 10 yards on almost one fourth of his touches (22.1%) and scored four touchdowns of 30-plus yards (he would have had a fifth had he not slid down near the goal line to bleed some more clock against Indiana).

He also did not put the football on the ground even once while continuing to produce at a high level as a pass protector. Add the fact that he did not miss time due to injury for the first time in three years, and was voted a captain by his teammates, and you get a player who left college on a high note — and that is before mentioning that he played a pivotal role in Ohio State winning the National Championship for the first time in a decade.

In the team’s four playoff games, including a win over Notre Dame in the title game, Henderson contributed 265 rushing yards and four touchdowns on 36 carries. He also gained 149 receiving yards and scored a touchdown on eight catches.

2025 preview​

Position: All-purpose RB | Ability: Fringe starter/Role player | Contract: Unsigned draft pick

What will be his role? With Rhamondre Stevenson as the No. 1 running back and primary early-down option, Henderson projects as a rotational player in the New England backfield as a rookie. As such, he will serve as the next man up as well as a player who can contribute on passing downs. Based on the open offseason workouts this spring, Henderson looks as if he will be the Patriots’ RB2 even ahead of change-of-pace option Antonio Gibson.

What is his growth potential? Despite being a rookie, Henderson was already fairly advanced as a prospect. There is natural room for growth relative to NFL competition, but he has the upside to become what he was in college: a big play threat and potential starter capable of filling a sizable role on all three offensive downs.

Does he have positional versatility? Within the context of the running back position, Henderson is indeed a fairly versatile player; he can produce independently of scheme and situation. This versatility also extends beyond the offensive side of the ball, at least to a degree: he returned nine kickoffs during his time at Ohio State, averaging 9.6 yards per runback.

What is his salary cap situation? As of Monday, July 7, Henderson does not count against the Patriots’ salary cap for one simple reason: he has yet to sign his rookie contract, making him the last of New England’s draft picks to do so. The holdup, which is still likely to be resolved before training camp, is tied to the guarantees (as is the case with a vast majority of second-round picks): there is uncertainty about how much of his eventual four-year, $11.14 million deal will be fully guaranteed upon signing.

Henderson ultimately putting his signature under a contact will, however, not change the structure of the deal as per the collectively-bargained rookie wage scale. The 2025 portion of it, for example, will come with a cap hit of $2.026 million that consists of an $840,000 base salary (including a guaranteed sum as of yet to be determined) as well as a $1.19 million signing bonus proration.

How safe is his roster spot? Once his contract is signed, Henderson will not just officially join the Patriots but also their ranks of roster locks. His draft status — let alone his abilities as a running back — guarantees that he will be on the 53-man team come September barring any incident or accident.

Summary: Given his speed, ball security and pass protection skills, the Patriots placing a high value on Henderson in the draft did not come as a surprise. And while it remains to be seen how well he will adapt to life in the NFL, his potential is enticing while his presence could have a transformative effect on the team’s offense.

What do you think about TreVeyon Henderson heading into the 2025 season? Please head down to the comment section to share your thoughts.

Source: https://www.patspulpit.com/2025/7/7...erson-profile-scouting-report-2025-nfl-season

 

[New England Patriots]

New England Patriots links 7/08/25 - Drake Maye hosts workouts with receivers; QB rankings

Photo by Matt Stone/MediaNews Group/Boston Herald via Getty Images

Daily news and links for Tuesday

TEAM TALK

• Evan Lazar’s Training camp preview: Quarterbacks. Drake Maye, Joshua Dobbs, Ben Wooldridge.
• Patriots 2025 training camp preview: Mike Dussault, Paul Perillo and Evan Lazar discuss what you should look for from Drake Maye’s development, positional battles, joint practices and more! (16 min. video)

LOCAL LINKS

• Keagan Stiefel reports on Drake Maye hosting offseason workout with his pass-catchers.
• Danny Jaillet thumbnails 4 Patriots players who should build off breakout seasons: LB Christian Elliss, QB Drake Maye, WR Kayshon Boutte and Edge K’LavonChaisson.
• Ian Logue’s Patriots News: Surprises likely ahead, Harrison to be honored.
• Nick Goss notes ESPN’s Football Power Index (FPI) model gives the Patriots just a 32 percent chance of reaching the postseason, which ranks 12th among the 16 AFC teams.
• Danny Jaillet points out how the Patriots OL gots wrecked in latest rankings despite major changes.
• Cam Garrity uses ChatGPT to predict the Patriots’ 2025 season results and key player stats.
• Ryan McLaughlin notes a strong 2nd year can put Drake Maye in the Offensive Player of the Year conversation.
• Lauren Campbell highlights Jeremy Fowler on SportsCenter explaining why he thinks a jump in Year 2 is coming for Drake Maye.
• Mike Rosenstein relays TMZ that Stefon Diggs’ girlfriend, rapper Cardi B, “took to Instagram over the weekend and erased all of her photos with the receiver, which is never a good sign.” /Sometimes drama takes itself out the door.
• Sara Marshall relays Greg Bedard’s speculation that the team may be looking to trade Stefon Diggs and fans are rolling their eyes at the manufactured drama.
• Jordy McElroy notes former Patriots captain Ja’Whaun Bentley remains unsigned.
• Nick O’Malley relays former Patriot Asante Samuel blasting the Dolphins: They’re run “like a Little League team.”
• Lauren Campbell notes one of the new features in the EA Sports’ College Football ‘26 video game is it will have real head coaches. /Take a guess which NCAA head coach will not be included, lolz.
• Pats Interference podcast: Andrew Callahan and Mike Giardi discuss the biggest questions on offense this season: Do the Pats have enough receivers? (5.16 min. video)

NATIONAL NEWS

• Henry McKenna (Fox Sports) QB Stock Market: After Aaron Rodgers signing, Steelers’ nightmare is just beginning. Drake Maye 20th.
• Bill Barnwell (ESPN) Ranking NFL WR, TE, RB groups for 2025: Best and worst teams. Patriots 30th. /Click for commentary.
• Zachary Pereles (CBS Sports) Projecting 2024 rookie QB class in 2025. Drake Maye: Better decision-making and accuracy, plus more running.
• Conor Orr (SI) Ten possible first-time Pro Bowlers in 2025. Christian Gonzalez included.
• Jacob Infante (ProFootballNetwork) Every team’s top Comeback Player of the Year contender. Pats: Stefon Diggs.
• Frank Schwab (Yahoo! Sports) NFL Quarter Century: Tom Brady, Randy Moss headline the all-2000s team.
• Mike Kadlick (SI) Five best trade destinations for Terry McLaurin amid Commanders contract dispute. Patriots included.
• Michael David Smith (ProFootballTalk) Patriots draft pick Julian Ashby is viewed as having “special” talent for long snapping.
• Wyatt Grindley (NFLTR) AFC Notes: Stefon Diggs, Sauce Gardner, Dolphins, Jets, Patriots.
• John Breech (CBS Sports) 15 NFL teams that will be getting a new helmet or uniform for 2025, with expected release date. AFC East will be getting their new “Rivalries” uniform in 2025.
• Cody Benjamin (CBS Sports) Top 25 NFL moments of first 25 years of the 2000s: Honorable Mention, Tedy Bruschi’s return (2005), 17. Tracy Porter’s pick six (2010), 6. Malcolm Butler’s goal-line pick (2015), 2. Brady’s 28-3 comeback (2017). /Plus others mentioning the Pats that I won’t spotlight.
• Tyler Sullivan (CBS Sports) 2025 NFL season milestones to watch: Aaron Rodgers passing Brett Favre, Mike Evans topping Jerry Rice.
• Tom Blair (NFL.com) Building the best NFL team money can buy under the 2025 salary cap. No Pats.
• Jeremy Fowler (ESPN) Execs, coaches, scouts rank NFL’s top 10 defensive tackles for 2025. No Pats.
• Gilberto Manzano (SI) 32 Teams in 32 Days: Bills still looking to break through.
• Gennaro Filice (NFL.com) Top 10 NFL triplets by college affiliation: Oklahoma edges out Georgia, Alabama for No. 1
• Myles Simmons (ProFootballTalk) Patrick Mahomes: I’ve talked to Tom Brady a good amount this offseason.
• Mike Florio (ProFootballTalk) Report: NFL “could” attempt to extend media deals before 2029.

Source: https://www.patspulpit.com/2025/7/8...aye-hosts-workouts-with-receivers-qb-rankings

 

[New England Patriots]

Patriots player profile: Anfernee Jennings is the old guard on the edge

Photo by Kathryn Riley/Getty Images

Previewing the Patriots edge heading into his sixth NFL season.

The New England Patriots appeared to have strength in numbers along the defensive edge entering their 2024 training camp. Matthew Judon, Joshua Uche and Anfernee Jennings were joined by free agency pickup Oshane Ximines to give the team a solid four-player rotation.

Fast forward to the tail-end of the regular season, and only Jennings remained on the active roster. Move a bit further to the preparation for the team’s 2025 camp, and the 28-year-old is the only one of those four players still with the team. With the Patriots’ edge undergoing a transformation process, he is the old guard left standing.

Hard facts​

Name: Anfernee Jennings

Position: Defensive edge/Outside linebacker

Jersey number: 33

Opening day age: 28 (5/1/1997)

Measurements: 6’2 1/8”, 255 lbs, 79 1/2” wingspan, 32 7/8” arm length, 9 1/8” hand size, N/A Relative Athletic Score

Experience​

NFL: New England Patriots (2020-) | College: Alabama (2015-19)

A four-star linebacker recruit out of Dadeville High School in Dadeville AL, Jennings was a popular player on the scouting trail. Picking up offers from several Power 5 teams including Georgia and Clemson, he decided to stay home and joined the University of Alabama in 2015.

Over the next five seasons, he appeared in 54 games for the Crimson Tide and registered 194 tackles, 15.5 sacks, as well as a pair of interceptions and fumble recoveries each — all while overcoming what could have been a career-ending knee injury suffered during the 2017-18 college football playoff. Less than two years later, he was named first-team All-SEC and set the stage to becoming an early-round pick in the NFL Draft.

The Patriots ended up selecting him 87th overall in the third round in 2020, and primarily used him as a role player early on. His 2023 season, however, saw him take a major step in his development: with Pro Bowler Matthew Judon missing most of the year due to injury, Jennings moved into a starting role and became one of the top run-defending edges in football.

In total, he has seen action in 61 games since arriving in New England. Jennings has 191 tackles and 5.5 sacks on his résumé; he also forced a pair of fumbles and registered one recovery.

Scouting report​

Strengths: Jennings fills out his 6-foot-2 frame well and uses his size to set a stout edge in the run game. He has advanced instincts and a natural feel for blocking schemes and misdirection, allowing him to find ball carriers and limit the damage at the point of attack even when initially engaged. He times his swipes well and generally sheds blocks quickly and efficiently, while a firm base and powerful upper body make it hard for both linemen and tight ends to move him off the ball.

Jennings also is a strong player from the backside. He maneuvers through traffic and is effective in pursuit while also typically finishing his blocks. The last two seasons, he also showed that he can stay physical despite an extended workload and contribute in the passing game. A smart player, he has shown growth as a leader since coming to New England.

Weaknesses: Jennings offers good play strength but does not complement it with a particularly explosive athletic skillset. His acceleration and speed are good enough but nothing special, and he neither has the quickest feet nor the best bend around the edge. All of that is impacting his productivity as a pass rusher: he has some solid fundamentals and moves but lacks the standout traits to regularly overwhelm blockers or get by them to reach the backfield.

Jennings also takes the occasional over-aggressive angle toward the ball carrier. He also has had limited success making plays on the ball in his career.

2024 review​

Stats: 16 games (16 starts) | 831 defensive snaps (74.3%), 38 special teams snaps (8.7%) | 78 tackles, 6 missed tackles (7.1%), 7 TFLs, 1 forced fumble | 31 quarterback pressures (2.5 sacks, 6 hits, 22 hurries) | 8 targets, 7 catches surrendered (87.5%), 70 yards | 2 penalties

Season recap: Coming off the best season of his career up until that point, Jennings and the Patriots reached an agreement on a three-year, $12 million extension that would keep him in New England through 2026. The first of those three seasons was his most productive to date.

Starting all 16 games he appeared in, Jennings set multiple career marks in 2024 including playing his most ever snaps (831). He also reached new heights in tackles (78) as well as in sacks (2.5) and quarterback pressures (31).

More than anything, this is a sign of how his role continued to evolve in his fifth season in the league: whereas he was mostly an early-down role player earlier in his career, Jennings became a three-down contributor against both the pass and the run in 2024. While some of that is due to the personnel the Patriots had available, is also speaks for his continued development as a player.

His numbers compared to his teammates reflect this: Jennings led the Patriots in solo run game tackles (37) and ranked second in QB pressures and third in sacks. And while his production especially against the pass did not stand out in a league-wide comparison, he remained among the better outside run defenders in the NFL. He ranked sixth in run stops (37) and 10th in run stop rate (9.3%) among qualifying edges.

That does not mean Jennings’ season was an overwhelming success. His disruptiveness as a pass rusher left some to be desired; he had some up-and-down stretches of play particularly during the heavy-usage middle part of his season; he was on the receiving end of a momentum-changing roughing the passer call against Arizona in Week 15; and he dealt with shoulder and knee injuries.

On the whole, however, Jennings can feel good about how the 2024 season went for him on an individual level. He was the Patriots’ most reliable edge for a second straight year, and showed why the team was willing to invest in him.

2025 preview​

Position: Base ED | Ability: Fringe starter/Role player | Contract: Signed through 2026

What will be his role? Despite playing a career high 426 passing game snaps in 2024, Jennings still projects as a base defender and early-down edge for the Patriots heading into 2025. A premier run defender, he will complement pass-first players like Keion White, K’Lavon Chaisson and Bradyn Swinson as well as all-around ED Harold Landry.

What is his growth potential? Jennings showed some serious development from his first three seasons in the NFL to his most recent two. That said, he is at a point in his career where any and all growth projects to be marginal. It seems unlikely that he will ever develop into a standout pass rusher, for example, and will have to continue making his living as a run defender.

Does he have positional versatility? Even though Jennings joined the Patriots as a hybrid linebacker who saw snaps both on and off the ball, he has since become almost an exclusive edge. Add the fact that he has comparatively limited value versus the pass and in the kicking game, and you get a player who cannot be described as particularly versatile.

What is his salary cap situation? As part of the three-year extension Jennings signed with the Patriots last offseason, he is carrying a cap hit of $5.306 million into 2025. That number consists of a $1.85 million base salary, $1 million signing bonus proration, $705,882 in likely to be earned roster bonuses, a $250,000 workout bonus, and $1.5 million in likely to be earned playtime incentives. A total of $2.35 million of Jennings’ 2025 cash intake — $1.35 million of his salary plus his entire signing bonus proration — are fully guaranteed.

How safe is his roster spot? Jennings started a combined 30 games over the last two seasons, is a plus run defender and would come with a dead cap figure of $2.35 million. Nonetheless, his spot on the team is not guaranteed heading into what would be his sixth season in Foxborough. The Patriots, after all, appear to be moving toward more speed and playmaking ability versus the pass with their new defense — attributes Jennings only offers to a certain degree in what has become somewhat of a crowded outside linebacker room.

Summary: The longest-tenured Patriot when measured by contract signing date, Jennings will be worth keeping a close eye on this training camp and preseason. He is not a star player by any means, but somebody who positively contributed to the team in both 2023 and 2024, but who might be in danger of missing out on the roster altogether in 2025.

What do you think about Anfernee Jennings heading into the 2025 season? Please head down to the comment section to share your thoughts.

Source: https://www.patspulpit.com/2025/7/8...nings-profile-scouting-report-2025-nfl-season

 

[New England Patriots]

Patriots player profile: Miles Battle has an intriguing skillset at cornerback

Photo by Fred Kfoury III/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Previewing the Patriots cornerback heading into his second season in New England.

The New England Patriots were quite active trying to add depth to their roster in 2024, a process that led to them bringing in several outside players during the season. One of those was cornerback Miles Battle.

Hard facts​

Name: Miles Battle

Position: Cornerback

Jersey number: 35

Opening day age: 25 (1/4/2000)

Measurements: 6’3 1/4”, 197 lbs, 78 1/2” wingspan, 32 1/8” arm length, 8 3/8” hand size, 4.37s 40-yard dash, 6.84s 3-cone drill, 4.03s short shuttle, 37” vertical jump, 10’7” broad jump, 12 bench press reps, 9.49 Relative Athletic Score

Experience​

NFL: Kansas City Chiefs (2024), New England Patriots (2024-) | College: Ole Miss (2018-22), Utah (2023)

Battle received over two dozen scholarship offers as a four-star wide receiver recruit out of Cypress Creek High School in Houston, and originally committed to the University of Oregon. He changed his mind during his senior season and later joined Ole Miss, but his career with the Rebels started slowly and he caught only four passes for 38 yards over his first two seasons.

Amid his struggles earning regular playing time on offense, Battle switched to cornerback during the pandemic-shortened 2020 season. The move resulted in increased playing time both during his final two years at Ole Miss and his 2023 season at Utah. In total, he started six out of 59 college games and registered 97 tackles as well as three interceptions between his stints at the two schools.

Battle entered the NFL in 2024 but did not hear his name called in the draft. He started his pro career in Kansas City before joining the Patriots during the regular season, playing in one game down the stretch.

Scouting report​

Strengths: Battle offers an intriguing skillset at the cornerback position. He moves well for a 6-foot-3, 197 player and gets up to his 4.37-second speed quickly, which allows him to stick to receivers’ hips through vertical routes. His wide receiver background also shows up on tape: he has good ball skills and knows how to be disruptive at the catch point, using his build and ability to reach outside his frame to his advantage. Despite a lack of experience, Battle is a solid tackler.

Weaknesses: Entering the NFL with fewer than 1,300 defensive snaps on his résumé, Battle is understandably raw in a variety of aspects. His processing and route understanding need development, resulting in him playing significantly slower and more hesitant than his natural skillset would suggest. He is further along as a man than a zone defender — his feel for zone is a major work in progress — but he is still lacking technical refinement in either area. While solid as a tackler, his run defense as a whole is not yet up to par.

2024 review​

Stats: 1 game (0 starts) | 18 defensive snaps (1.6%), 2 special teams snaps (0.5%) | 2 tackles, 0 missed tackles | 5 targets, 1 catch (20%), 11 yards, 3 PBUs

Season recap: After not hearing his name called in the draft, Battle joined the world champion Chiefs as a free agent in early May. He went on to spend his entire rookie training camp and preseason in Kansas City, appearing in two exhibition contests. The fact that he only played 18 combined snaps between those already strongly hinted at his eventual fate: he was released ahead of the roster cutdown deadline.

Battle subsequently went unclaimed on waivers and had to wait until mid-October to find a new team. That team was the Patriots, who signed him to their practice squad.

Battle remained on New England’s developmental team without seeing any in-game action until early January. He was then promoted to the 53-man roster ahead of the team’s season finale versus Buffalo, and went on to make his NFL debut in Week 18: the rookie played 18 defensive snaps plus two more on special teams in New England’s 23-17 win.

Despite being on the field for only one fourth of snaps, Battle had a solid day. Not only did he give up only one 11-yard reception, he also was credited with three pass breakups. While not a standout performance, it was a way for him to end his first season as a pro on a high note.

2025 preview​

Position: Perimeter CB | Ability: Camp body/Practice squad candidate | Contract: Signed through 2025

What will be his role? The tallest defensive back on New England’s current roster, Battle provides length and raw athleticism on the perimeter of the defense. He projects as a depth option behind projected starters Christian Gonzalez and Carlton Davis, either on the roster or — more likely — the practice squad.

What is his growth potential? Battle has the athletic skill to compete at the NFL level, but he lacks refinement. That is precisely where his potential for development lies. If he can get his technique sorted out and improve his understanding of both offense and defense, thus playing more freely, he could develop into a key reserve or potential starter at some point down the line.

Does he have positional versatility? Even though he started out as a wide receiver, Battle is not a particularly versatile player at this stage in his career — at least on defense. His rawness plays a part in this, but so does his size: at 6-foot-3, he best projects as an outside cornerback. Special teams is a different story, though, after he saw action on five units both in college and during his time in Kansas City. In his lone game as a Patriot, Battle’s two kicking game snaps came with the kickoff return team.

What is his salary cap situation? The Patriots signed Battle through 2025 when they promoted him to the 53-man roster in January, but made no serious financial commitment in doing so. He is on a $840,000 base salary this season that simultaneously functions as his cap hit. With that number not high enough to qualify for Top 51 status and no guarantees in his deal, he currently has no impact on New England’s salary cap.

How safe is his roster spot? Despite ending the 2024 season on the active team, Battle entered the offseason firmly on the roster bubble. The fact that he missed time in the spring due to an apparent hand or wrist injury did not help his cause. Unless he quickly can return to the field and show clear signs of a second-year jump, his future in New England might be murky.

Summary: With only so many spots on the roster or practice squad available, Battle will need a strong summer to carve out a role and push other depth cornerbacks off the team. Can he do it? That remains to be seen, but there is no denying his raw skill and potential.

What do you think about Miles Battle heading into the 2025 season? Please head down to the comment section to share your thoughts.

Source: https://www.patspulpit.com/2025/7/9...attle-profile-scouting-report-2025-nfl-season

 

[New England Patriots]

Patriots player profile: Undrafted Lan Larison is a jack of all trades

Photo by Fred Kfoury III/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Previewing the Patriots running back heading into his first NFL season.

With Rhamondre Stevenson and Antonio Gibson returning as the 1-2 punch, the New England Patriots entered the 2025 offseason seemingly well-set atop their running back depth chart. However, that did not stop them from bringing in some competition, including undrafted rookie Lan Larison.

Hard facts​

Name: Lan Larison

Position: Running back

Jersey number: 32

Opening day age: 23 (10/11/2001)

Measurements: 5’10 1/2”, 209 lbs, 73 3/4” wingspan, 30 1/8” arm length, 9 3/4” hand size, 4.57s 40-yard dash, 6.93s 3-cone drill, 4.21s short shuttle, 35 1/2” vertical jump, 9’11” broad jump, 21 bench press reps, 7.02 Relative Athletic Score

Experience​

NFL: New England Patriots (2025-) | College: UC Davis (2020-24)

Despite being a productive dual-threat quarterback at Vallivue High School in Caldwell, ID, Larison flew largely under the radar. A two-star recruit, he eventually found his way to UC Davis, where he spent his entire five-year college career. During that time, he developed into one of the most productive players in school history and one of the top performers in the FCS.

Larison appeared in a combined 50 games as an Aggie, gaining a school record 6,504 all-purpose yards and scoring 52 total touchdowns (plus one passing TD). Productive as a runner, receiver and kickoff returner, he was named All-Big Sky each of his five seasons (first team 2022, 2023, 2024; second team 2020, 2021) and honored as the conference’s offensive player of the year in 2023.

Despite his standout career in Davis, Larison did not hear his name called in the 2025 NFL Draft. He signed with the Patriots as a free agent shortly after the conclusion of the seventh round.

Scouting report​

Strengths: Larison combines a low center of gravity with a solid athletic skillset as well as the contact balance and strength needed to break tackles. A “fight for ever yard”-type of runner, he averaged 3.6 yards after contact and forced 132 missed tackles over the course of his college career. His ability to keep his feet moving and power through defenders is complemented by some good vision and patience; he reads his blocks well and can adapt accordingly when things start to break down or holes begin to open up elsewhere.

Lan Larison rushing pic.twitter.com/tLiNGNQuhQ

— Taylor Kyles (@tkyles39) April 29, 2025​

Larison’s running abilities also serve him well as a receiver. He is dangerous in open space and with the ball in his hands, averaging 10.5 yards after catch over his time in college. He runs routes at a consistent speed and makes decisive and quick breaks, uncovering quickly against linebackers. He also has natural, fairly big hands as well as the concentration to keep drops at a minimum.

Lan Larison targets pic.twitter.com/R5P4W5IteT

— Taylor Kyles (@tkyles39) April 29, 2025​

The aforementioned play strength also allowed Larison to impress as a pass protector in college. Despite a lack of size, he showed the power in his upper body to hold his own against players bigger than him. The numbers speak for themselves: he gave up only two pressures, including zero sacks, during 124 pass blocking reps at UC Davis.

Lan Larison blocking pic.twitter.com/LfoDNgFGF4

— Taylor Kyles (@tkyles39) April 29, 2025​

Other positive attributes include Larison’s experience as a kickoff returner and wildcat quarterback (20 career dropback snaps with 18 pass attempts). He also made headlines in 2019 when he saved the life of Vallivue teammate who had suffered cardiac arrest while swimming; Larison pulled him from the water and administered CPR until paramedics arrived at the scene.

Weaknesses: As a size/speed athlete, Larison is nothing special. Measuring under 5-foot-11 and 209 pounds, his 40 time (4.57s; 46%tile) and 10-yard split (1.67s; 4%tile) are both below average for a running back prospect. His second gear is also lacking, and his impressive yards after contact numbers are mostly due to his strength and agility rather than his straight line speed; running away from pro-level defenders will be a challenge for him.

In general, the NFL presents a serious uptick in competition, something that will also stress his other areas of college success. Will he continue to hold up well in pass protection against superior athletes? Will he be able to get open that easily as a receiver? Will his vision and patience still stand out when the holes are smaller and getting shut quickly? Will his ball protection issues — eight career fumbles, including four in 2024 — continue?

2024 review​

Stats: 14 games (14 starts) | 765 offensive snaps, 53 special teams snaps | 284 carries, 1,465 yards (5.2 yards/carry), 17 TDs, 4 fumbles, 1 fumble recovery | 83 targets, 62 catches (74.7%), 847 yards, 6 TDs, 3 drops | 0 pressures surrendered | 7 pass attempts, 5 completions (71.4%), 45 yards, 1 INT | 5 kickoff returns, 75 yards (15.0 yards/return) | 1 penalty

Season recap: Gaining 1,299 yards from scrimmage and scoring 15 touchdowns, Larison had the best season of his career to that point in 2023. His 2024 campaign blew those numbers out of the water (even though they did not result in him winning Big Sky Offensive Player of the Year honors for a second straight year).

Starting all 14 games and playing his most ever offensive snaps in a single season (765), Larison set new career marks in virtually every meaningful statistical category. As a result of his uptick in opportunity and production, he finished with a combined 2,312 rushing and receiving yards as well as 23 total touchdowns.

Looking closer at those numbers, you can see the sheer absurdity of his production in 2024. Larison, for example, gained more than 100 scrimmage yards in 12 of his 14 games; the only exceptions were the season opener against Cal, when he had 73 yards, as well as the Aggies’ Division I playoff quarterfinal loss against South Dakota that he left at in the first half due to an ankle injury.

In between those two games, he seemingly gained yards at will — including four contests that saw him cross the 200-yard mark. Best among those was a 257-yard game versus Eastern Washington. He also was the only player in the nation to register at least 100 receiving and 100 rushing yards rushing in a single game, a feat he accomplished twice (at Portland State, vs. Montana State).

In addition, Larison also found the end zone in 12 out of 14 games. He had five separate three-touchdown games.

His contributions did not stop there. The first-team All-Big Sky selection and FCS All-American also gained 45 yards on five pass completions and 75 yards on five kickoff returns.

His only blemish was his ball security. Besides fumbling the ball four times as a runner, Larison also threw an interception in a win over Cal Poly. Other than those and his injury in the final game of the year, he can be quite happy with his last season of college ball — even though it neither resulted in a championship nor in him getting drafted.

2025 preview​

Position: All-purpose RB/Gadget piece | Ability: Depth player/Role player | Contract: Signed through 2027

What will be his role? Larison was a jack of all trades on the offensive side of the ball in college, and the Patriots are likely to use him as such at the next level as well. He saw plenty of opportunities as a receiving back during the open portion of the admittedly pass-heavy offseason workout program, for example. At the moment, he projects as a rotational fourth running back option behind Rhamondre Stevenson, TreVeyon Henderson and Antonio Gibson.

What is his growth potential? Larison’s lack of all-around athleticism might put a ceiling on just how far he can go, but he has a solid foundation to build on. If the Patriots and the 23-year-old manage to do that, he could become a regular change-of-pace option on offense (in the mold of Danny Woodhead or Rex Burkhead) as well as a potential contributor on special teams further down the line.

Does he have positional versatility? Well, yes. In fact, Larison might have an argument as one of the most naturally versatile players on the Patriots’ roster at the moment: he was a high-level producer as both a runner and receiver in college, was used as a package quarterback on occasion, and finished his career with 1,246 kickoff return yards. While that usage translating to the NFL 1-for-1 is unlikely, he brings plenty of diverse experience to the table.

What is his salary cap situation? Larison was one of the Patriots’ priorities as an undrafted free agent, with his 2025 salary cap number of $848,333 being tied for second among the team’s UDFAs (behind TE C.J. Dippre’s $850,000). It consists of a $840,000 base salary including a $150,000 guarantee as well as a fully-guaranteed $8,333 signing bonus proration. Under the NFL’s Top 51 rule, that latter number is Larison’s current salary cap impact.

How safe is his roster spot? Even though there is plenty to like about Larison as an undrafted prospect, his roster spot is far from secure. A lot will depend on his performance in training camp and preseason as well as the the balance the team is looking for on offense. Will a fourth running back be valued higher than additional depth elsewhere? Based on his offseason usage, that might end up being the case.

Summary: The Patriots have several UDFAs worth keeping an eye on this summer, and Larison is near the top of the list. After all, his versatile skillset makes him an intriguing option for offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels to play with. While it remains to be seen if it also leads to him making the roster or even the practice squad, he could become a fan favorite in training camp and preseason.

What do you think about Lan Larison heading into the 2025 season? Please head down to the comment section to share your thoughts.

Source: https://www.patspulpit.com/2025/7/9...rison-profile-scouting-report-2025-nfl-season

 

[New England Patriots]

Patriots player profile: Andres Borregales has the inside track in the kicker competition

Eric Canha-Imagn Images

Previewing the Patriots kicker heading into his first season in the NFL.

With Adam Vinatieri and Stephen Gostkowski holding own the fort for two decades, the New England Patriots once were a bastion of stability at placekicker. Those days are long gone, however, and the team has not found consistency at the position since.

As a result, the Patriots are the only team in the NFL to draft three kickers since Gostkowski’s departure in 2020. The latest of them comes via the University of Miami, and the sixth round of this year’s draft.

Hard facts​

Name: Andres Borregales

Position: Placekicker

Jersey number: 36

Opening day age: 22 (1/2/2003)

Measurements: 5’11 1/8”, 202 lbs, 28 7/8” arm length, 8 1/4” hand size, N/A Relative Athletic Score

Experience​

NFL: New England Patriots (2025-) | College: Miami (2021-24)

Born in Caracas, Venezuela, Borregales and his family moved to the United States shortly before his second birthday. Playing soccer and football growing up, he attended several high schools in the Miami area in hopes of maximizing his potential on the gridiron. Eventually, he finished at Champagnat Catholic and as a three-star recruit — one who received a handful of scholarship offers before committing to his hometown school.

In four seasons at Miami, Borregales proved himself more than just an able kicker: he became one of the best players at his position in the entire country. A four-time All-ACC selection (first team 2023 and 2024; second team 2021 and 2022), he appeared in 50 total games for the Hurricanes and went 74 for 86 as a field goal kicker (86%) as well as 183 for 184 on extra points (99.5%).

Borregales set his sights on the NFL in 2025. The consensus top kicker prospect, he heard his name called 182nd overall by the Patriots in the sixth round of the draft.

Scouting report​

Strengths: Having made 86 percent of his field goal attempts during his college career as well as 70 percent from beyond 50 yards, Borregales brings an impressive résumé to the NFL — and more. He is a technically advanced kicker whose smooth and repeatable motion allows him to combine accuracy and maximize his range. His leg strength should also translate to the next level, and allow him to maintain control of his kicks in more challenging conditions than he faced in the ACC. He also has vast experience on kickoffs and earned a career touchback rate of 60.5 percent on 306 attempts.

Weaknesses: Despite the right makeup, Borregales is still a somewhat unclear projection from the college to the pro level. Not only is there uncertainty about how he will hold up in New England weather, but also whether or not he can keep his success rate high with an increased workload (his 19 field goal attempts in 2024 would have ranked 32nd in the NFL). In addition, he is on the smaller side and not the most fluid overall athlete. He also found himself out of position as the last man on two kickoff return touchdowns in 2024.

2024 review​

Stats: 13 games (0 starts) | 180 special teams snaps, 1 offensive snap | 19 field goal attempts, 18 field goals made (94.7%) | 62 extra point attempts, 62 extra points made (100%) | 99 kickoffs, 6,245 yards (63.1 gross yards/kickoff; 57.0 net yards/kickoff), 65 touchbacks, 1 out of bounds, 24 returns, 605 return yards (25.2 yards/return), 2 return TDs

Season recap: Making 81, 85 and 84.6 percent of his field goal tries, consistency was one of Borregales’ defining traits over his first three seasons at Miami. He still managed to take a significant leap as a senior in 2024.

Appearing in all 13 of the Hurricanes’ games as a placekicker and kickoff specialist, he split the uprights on 80 of his 81 combined kicks. Borregales was on point for all but one of his 19 field goal tries, resulting in a career-best success rate of 94.7 percent that had him ranked fourth among all FBS kickers with double-digit attempts. He also made all 62 of his extra points.

The final numbers were impressive, but they do not fully tell the story of Borregales’ 2024 campaign. It started off on the wrong foot, after all, with a 45-yard field goal miss in the season opener against Florida. From that point on, however, he was automatic and ended his college career with 18 straight FGs — including two from beyond 50 yards.

One of those provided pivotal points in a 38-34 win over Virginia Tech in late September. Borregales was called upon late in the second quarter to cut into what was then a 10-point deficit; he did so via a career-long 56-yarder as time expired.

While there were a few more bumps along the way — he was on the wrong end on two separate kickoff return touchdowns — Borregales managed to end his college career on a high note. It was therefore no surprise to see him earn first-team All-ACC honors for a second straight season and ultimately become the first kicker selected in the 2025 NFL Draft.

2025 preview​

Position: Kicker | Ability: Quality special teamer | Contract: Signed through 2028

What will be his role? Borregales was drafted by the Patriots to kick field goals as well as extra points and to kick the ball off, and that is precisely what he is going to do. As a consequence, he projects to play around one third of special teams in 2025.

What is his growth potential? Already an advanced player at his position, Borregales’ growth potential is tied to his ability to adapt to his new surroundings — more diverse weather, increased pressure, heavier workload, new snapper/holder/coaching setup. From a pure talent perspective, though, he has the makings of a multi-year kicker in the NFL.

Does he have positional versatility? Even though he did some punting back in high school, Borregales was exclusively used as a kicker in college and will continue on that path in New England. Being able to perform on place kicks and kickoffs, he is as versatile as he needs to be.

What is his salary cap situation? Borregales signed a four-year rookie contract shortly after the draft that comes with a $904,121 cap hit for the 2025 season. That number consists of his base salary ($840,000) and signing bonus proration ($64,121) and is currently not large enough to qualify for Top 51 status. As a result, only that fully-guaranteed bonus is counted against the Patriots’ books at the moment.

How safe is his roster spot? Borregales finds himself in a competition with fellow kicker Parker Romo, but he appears to be the clear favorite based on the five offseason practices open to the media. In those, the rookie made 19 of 20 kicks and looked to have the inside track over his more experienced teammate. His roster spot might not be etched in stone right now, but the signs point toward the 22-year-old becoming New England’s kicker choice when all is said and done.

Summary: The Patriots needed (yet another) infusion of young talent at the kicker position this offseason, and Borregales is just that. Sure, there are some questions, but that a) is the case with every rookie player, and b) does not mean he won’t prove himself a quality addition to what was an improved but at times inconsistent special teams unit in 2024.

What do you think about Andres Borregales heading into the 2025 season? Please head down to the comment section to share your thoughts.

Source: https://www.patspulpit.com/2025/7/1...gales-profile-scouting-report-2025-nfl-season

 

[New England Patriots]

New England Patriots links 7/11/25 - High marks for offseason upgrades; Why the Landry disrespect?

LB Harold Landry III | Photo by John Tlumacki/The Boston Globe via Getty Images

Daily news and links for Friday

TEAM TALK

• Evan Lazar’s Training camp preview: Wide receivers. Stefon Diggs, DeMario Douglas, Kyle Williams, Mack Hollins, Kendrick Bourne, Kayshon Boutte, Ja’Lynn Polk, Javon Baker, Efton Chism III, John Jiles, Dameer Blankumsee, Jeremiah Webb.
• Mike Dussault reports Christian Gonzalez cracks the NFL Top 100 at No. 84: A rising star in New England’s secondary.
• Patriots Unfiltered: Gonzo Top 100, Josh McDaniels offense, League and team news/topics. (2 hours)

LOCAL LINKS

• Nick Goss finds that most experts think the Patriots did a great job upgrading their roster at key positions during the 2025 NFL offseason. “And it’s not like these signings have decimated the Patriots’ salary cap picture. They still have $60 million in cap space, per OverTheCap, which is the most in the league. And they’re not paying Drake Maye or Christian Gonzalez huge money yet.” More.
• Conor Ryan notes CB Christian Gonzalez was named as one of the top 100 players in the NFL entering the 2025 season. “Despite getting some recognition from his peers, the case can be made that Gonzalez should have been ranked even higher after establishing himself as one of the top cover corners in the league in 2024.”
• Nick Goss feels the No 84 ranking for Christian Gonzalez is a little too low. /Me too.
• Matthew Schmidt is not a fan of how LB Harold Landry is being disrespected at a ridiculous level. “Apparently, advanced metrics do not like Landry, even though he has totaled 31.5 sacks over his last three healthy seasons. ... Sorry, but results matter. We can talk about “advanced statistics” as much as we want, but at some point, we have to look at the actual production, and Landry has been producing.
• Sara Marshall talks about how Drake Maye is predicted to make MVP-sized leap in his second season.
• Khari Thompson sits down with CB Marcus Jones for a wide ranging interview at the music camp he co-founded. Jones dishes on his goals, Mike Vrabel’s coaching style and what he’s seeing from Drake Maye.
• Jordy McElroy relays Stefon Diggs revealing his mindset ahead of camp, “I was a fifth-round draft pick. I beat everybody out of a job,” said Diggs. “That’s how I got my start. I got my opportunity, and I took advantage, and I got better each and every week. Now, I’m going into the new situation. I love that God gave me the opportunity again. ...There is no second chances with this [expletive]. You gotta take advantage of the right now.”
• Danny Jaillet tells us RB Rhamondre Stevenson landed 18th in NFL.com’s RB rankings.
• Alex Barth reports the Patriots announced an additional in-stadium practice being held inside Gillette Stadium.
• Alex Barth notes the Canadian Football League is showing interest in two of the Patriots’ UDFAs: WR Efton Chism (BC Lions), and QB Ben Wooldridge (Calgary Stampeders).
• Lauren Campbell highlights Robert Kraft expressing confidence his Patriots will turn things around in 2025.

NATIONAL NEWS

• Kristopher Knox (Bleacher Report) Predicting every team’s biggest bust of the 2025 NFL season. Patriots: LB Harold Landry III. The bust potential of pass-rusher Harold Landry III lies in the financials. The New England Patriots gave the 29-year-old a three-year, $43.5 million contract in free agency. That’s a substantial sum for an edge-defender who is probably second-tier at best; More.
• Dan Parr (NFL.com) 2025 NFL season: One player to root for from each AFC team. Patriots: Christian Barmore. /Click for commentary.
• Gary Davenport (Bleacher Report) 2025 NFL Power Rankings: Where does every team stack up entering training camp? Jets 28th, Patriots 26th, Dolphins 23rd, Bills 3rd.
• Eric Edholm (NFL.com) Ranking all eight NFL divisions entering 2025 season. AFC East 6th. “If the division as a whole is going to take a step forward in the hierarchy, it likely will require either the Patriots or Jets to outperform their exterior expectations.” More.
• Frank Schwab (Yahoo! Sports) NFL offseason power rankings: Will No. 14 Cincinnati Bengals waste another great Joe Burrow season?
• Kristopher Knox (Bleacher Report) Every NFL team’s Mt. Rushmore since 2000. Patriots: Brady, Gronk, Mankins, Wilfork. /Click for commentary.
• Nate Davis (USA Today) NFL uniforms ranked. Patriots 28th?!? /Consider me rankled.
• NFL Throwback (NFL.com) Best short careers in NFL history. (40 min. video)

Source: https://www.patspulpit.com/2025/7/1...-for-offseason-upgrades-why-landry-disrespect

 

[New England Patriots]

Will Drake Maye lead the Patriots to a Super Bowl?

Join the debate!

The New England Patriots selected Drake Maye third overall in the 2024 NFL Draft with one goal in mind: developing him into their next franchise quarterback and a player capable of leading the team back to the pro football promised land, the Super Bowl. Will he be able to become that player and reach that goal, though?

That is the subject of our latest weekend discussion:

Will Drake Maye lead the Patriots to a Super Bowl?​

First some picks from our staff, then it’s up to the comment section for your picks.

Bernd Buchmasser: Maye possesses all the physical skill in the world, and even in a tough rookie season showed he also has the mental capacity to become a top-tier quarterback in the NFL — which is precisely what you need to win a championship nowadays. His biggest asset, however, might be his youth: at 22, Maye is significantly younger than the current best quarterbacks in the AFC, meaning his window should stay open beyond the prime years of Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen, Lamar Jackson and Joe Burrow. This as much as his talent makes him a prime candidate for a Super Bowl win at some point in the future.

Taylor Kyles: He can’t do it alone, but Drake Maye’s got all the qualities of a Super Bowl-caliber quarterback. He’s obsessed with the game, wants to be great, and has the natural leadership to galvanize his team. The coaching staff and front office just need to hold up their end of the bargain.

Pat Lane: Yes, I believe he will. Of course, a million things have to go right for a team to win a Super Bowl, but I believe that Maye is that good, and I think the Patriots got the right coach in Mike Vrabel, plus the young talent on defense is strong enough that, assuming they keep everyone, they should be in contention for a lot of years. I think that, one of those years, they will break through.

Now, it’s your turn: Do you think Drake Maye will lead the Patriots to a Super Bowl at some point? Please scroll down to the comment section below to share your answers, thoughts, and more.

If you want to know how to sign up to join the debate, please click here.

Source: https://www.patspulpit.com/2025/7/13/24466746/patriots-discussion-debate-drake-maye-super-bowl

 

[New England Patriots]

Patriots player profile: Rhamondre Stevenson remains the No. 1 running back, for now

Previewing the Patriots running back heading into his fifth season in New England.

The New England Patriots entered the 2024 season with a simple battle plan. They wanted to dictate the flow of their games by playing stout defense and controlling the ball on offense. Needless to say, the plan did not work.

One of the main issues was a lack of success in the ground game: the Patriots ranked just 30th in the NFL in expected points added per run play. That number is heavily influenced by the team’s No. 1 running back and supposed offensive engine failing to produce at the desired level.

Hard facts​

Name: Rhamondre Stevenson

Position: Running back

Jersey number: 38

Opening day age: 27 (2/23/1998)

Measurements: 5’11 1/2”, 227 lbs, 75” wingspan, 30 1/4” arm length, 9” hand size, 4.64s 40-yard dash, 7.09s 3-cone drill, 4.15s short shuttle, 31 1/2” vertical jump, 9’4” broad jump, 15 bench press reps, 3.98 Relative Athletic Score

Experience​

NFL: New England Patriots (2021-) | College: Cerritos College (2017-18), Oklahoma (2019-20)

Despite a productive high school career at Centennial in Las Vegas, Stevenson was not rated as a recruit and flew largely under the radar heading toward college. As a consequence of this lack of interest in his services, he had to start off at the Juco level. However, a dominant 2018 season at Cerritos College that saw him rush for 2,111 yards and score 16 touchdowns put him on the map.

Stevenson ended up choosing Oklahoma over multiple other Power 5 offers. He spent two seasons as a Sooner, playing in 19 games and carrying the ball 165 times for 1,180 yards and 13 TDs; he also added 28 catches for 298 yards. While his raw production did not stand out, he displayed NFL-caliber talent throughout his time in Norman and was eventually selected 120th overall in the fourth round of the 2021 NFL Draft.

Even though he lost a fumble on his second career touch, Stevenson developed into a core member of the Patriots offense over his four seasons as a pro. In total, he has appeared in a combined 57 regular season and playoff games and gained 3,093 rushing yards on 714 carries and scored 21 touchdowns. He also has been on the receiving end of 158 passes for a further 983 yards and two scores.

Scouting report​

Strengths: At just under 6 feet and 227 pounds, Stevenson is a well-filled-out running back whose brand of football is a physical one. He plays with a sound pad level and combines it with good contact balance and effort; a player not easily brought down, he will keep his legs churning through contact and try to fall forward for extra yards. He additionally knows how to bounce off arm tackle attempts or shake defenders with his deceptive elusiveness and ability to switch to another gear.

A schematically-flexible back, Stevenson has good vision and a natural feel for exploiting holes in the defensive line. Once he sees an opening, he uses his burst, pad level and balance to his advantage to fit through and get to the second level. He also is patient enough to let his blocks develop in zone blocking concepts, and puts his foot in the ground with authority on cutback runs.

Stevenson also has been a reliable if at times underused player in the receiving game. He turns his head quickly and displays solid hands on screen plays, as a hot read and as a checkdown option. He also is an able pass protector, who reads and reacts quickly to the defense and uses his leverage and play strength to wall off blitzers or chip linemen and outside linebackers before releasing into his routes.

Weaknesses: Having touched the ball 860 times in his career, Stevenson has 14 fumbles on his NFL résumé — a rate of one fumble per every 61st touch. Shortcomings in ball security have reared their ugly head throughout his career, with an NFL-leading seven fumbles in 2024. The reason behind those are manifold and range from inconsistent technique, to insufficient grip strength, to mental errors and a desire to do too much, to a lack of team support.

Stevenson also is not the most explosive athlete and lacks any truly defining traits. His linear speed is adequate at best, preventing him from being a consistent home-run threat, and he also is not the most nimble runner. The latter also impacts his ability to run a high-level route tree as a receiving option, which in turn limits how he can be used in the passing game.

2024 review​

Stats: 15 games (14 starts) | 599 offensive snaps (54.8%) | 207 carries, 801 yards (3.9 yards/carry), 7 TDs, 7 fumbles (3 lost), 4 fumble recoveries | 39 targets, 33 catches (84.6%), 168 yards, 1 TD, 1 drop | 2 pressures surrendered (2 hurries) | 3 penalties

Season recap: Entering the final season of his rookie contract, the new-look Patriots made their intentions with Stevenson quite clear. In June, they reached an agreement with their lead running back on a contract extension that would keep him in New England through 2028 on a total price tag of $36 million.

In terms of average annual value, Stevenson’s deal was the sixth-biggest running back contract in the NFL at the time. Needless to say, the pressure was on the then-fourth-year man to live up to the investment.

At least in 2024, he did not.

Even though Stevenson led the Patriots with 969 scrimmage yards and a career-high eight touchdowns, he failed to become the focal point on offense that the team’s new coaching staff had hoped he would become. One big reason for that was the environment he found himself in: New England’s offensive line was a mess for much of the year, while defenses were able to hone in on stopping the run due to a lack of consistent downfield passing.

The Patriots’ general offensive ineptitude was only one part of the issue, though. Another was Stevenson playing an abysmal season in terms of ball security.

Leading all NFL running backs in fumbles, he put the ball on the ground on seven separate occasions. Stevenson fumbled in four straight games to open the season, and then three more times over his final six contests to close out the year. Three of his fumbles resulted in a change of possession.

(In addition, Stevenson let a Drake Maye backwards pass go through his hands in a Week 16 loss in Buffalo, resulting in a fumble that was recovered for a Bills touchdown. That play, however, was doomed from the get-go with Stevenson having to prepare for impact as soon as the ball arrived due to some subpar blocking up front.)

While Stevenson still ended up starting 14 of his 15 games and playing a position-high 599 offensive snaps, his ball security concerns led to the Patriots coaching staff reimagining his role with the team. Instead of being used as the bell cow running back he was extended to be, he saw a reduction in opportunities — both in terms of playing time and touches — on more than one occasion.

Fairly or not, his fumbles were the biggest story of Stevenson’s 2024 season. They were not the only worry, though, particularly considering the bigger picture of the unit surrounding him on and off the field. He finished with the worst yards per carry (3.9), yards per route run (0.6) and yards per touch (4.0) of his career, for example, and also was penalized three times.

All that being said, he also had his fair share of positive moments. Besides still being New England’s most productive skill position player, he also forced a career-high 41 missed tackles, set a new career mark in carries per game (13.8) and impressed in pass protection.

All in all, though, his season as a whole — partially through no fault of his own — was a major disappointment.

2025 preview​

Position: Starting RB | Ability: Quality starter | Contract: Signed through 2028

What will be his role? Stevenson is a starter-caliber running back capable of contributing on all three offensive downs. Given the current composition of the Patriots’ running back depth chart following the recent additions of Antonio Gibson (2024) and TreVeyon Henderson (2025), however, he projects primarily as an early-down option as well as a potential “closer” late in games. He also provides experience in new offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels’ offense from their time in 2021.

Rhamondre Stevenson on power/counter (2021) pic.twitter.com/fzol6GAlBY

— Taylor Kyles (@tkyles39) May 22, 2025​

What is his growth potential? Stevenson is well-established as a running back, but there is clear room for development as far as his ball security is concerned. If he can show improvement in this area under McDaniels and new running backs coach Tony Dews, his playing time should fluctuate less than it did in 2024 and align more with his contract.

Does he have positional versatility? As noted above, Stevenson is best suited for a defined role but also offers experience as a receiving option out of the backfield as well as from the slot and split out wide. That is the extent of his versatility, though, given that he is a non-factor on special teams (3 career snaps).

What is his salary cap situation? As part of his aforementioned contract extension through 2028, Stevenson is carrying a $5.541 million cap hit into 2025 — 14th on the team and 19th among all NFL running backs. The number itself consists of $2.75 million base salary and $1.6 million signing bonus proration, both fully guaranteed. In addition, it includes up to $1 million in per-game roster bonuses — $941,176 of which considered likely to be earned — as well as a $250,000 workout bonus.

How safe is his roster spot? Despite his issues in 2024 and the Patriots selecting TreVeyon Henderson 38th overall in this year’s draft, Stevenson’s spot on the team is safe for 2025. That is due to the structure of his contract and the fact that he is still the most proven running back on New England’s current roster. He also has shown that he can be a productive and reliable player in the NFL, and a key cog in the team’s offensive machinery.

Summary: Even though he has a challenging year behind him, Stevenson remains the Patriots’ RB1 heading into training camp and the 2025 season. His longterm outlook is a bit less clear given his ball security issues and Henderson in particular being added to the roster lately, but he has an overall track record worthy of a starting NFL running back — one he should get plenty of chances to add to this year.

What do you think about Rhamondre Stevenson heading into the 2025 season? Please head down to the comment section to share your thoughts.

Source: https://www.patspulpit.com/2025/7/1...enson-profile-scouting-report-2025-nfl-season

 

[New England Patriots]

21 Wins, 21 Years Later: A perfect reversal

Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images

Pat Lane and Matt St. Jean relive New England’s final two regular season games of 2003, finishing with the 31-0 win over the Bills

Twenty-one years ago, the New England Patriots completed the most dominant streak in the history of the NFL, finishing with 21 wins in a row across two seasons. Since it was such a dominant run, we have decided to take a look back at each one of the games.

This is the sixth in the series, so expect a ton more to come, and make sure to follow along on YouTube for the accompanying videos for each game as well.

Today, let’s take a look at Wins No. 11 and 12.

Win No. 11: Patriots 21, Jets 16​

2003 Week 16 | Dec. 20, 2003, 8:30 p.m. ET | Giants Stadium

Setting the scene: With the division wrapped up and the Patriots in the driver’s seat for the top seed in the AFC, the final weeks of the 2003 regular season were all about staying there. New England entered favored to win on the road to complete a season sweep of the New York Jets after beating them in the home opener back in September. Jets quarterback Chad Pennington had to sit that one out after an injury in the final week of the preseason sidelined him for the first six weeks of the season, and the Patriots took full advantage. Rookie Asante Samuel victimized veteran Vinny Testaverde for a pick-six early in the fourth quarter after a Tom Brady touchdown run put New England on top a few minutes earlier, and that was enough to get the win. The 6-8 New York Jets had been eliminated from the playoffs, but they were looking to play spoiler with Pennington in the lineup for this one.

Set for a Saturday night, the two teams would face off for ESPN’s 200th NFL broadcast, one that featured highlights of old games broadcast on the network. The first game on ESPN happened in that very stadium when Raymond Berry’s New England Patriots fell to Bill Parcells, Bill Belichick, and the New York Giants in 1987. Pepper Johnson played linebacker in that game, and he would coach New England’s linebackers in 2003. One of those linebackers would set the tone for this one early.

Game breakdown: It took only two plays for New England’s defense to show up, and one more play to put the Pats on top. Like he did against Miami’s Jay Fiedler two weeks earlier, Tedy Bruschi jumped an underneath pass from Chad Pennington and intercepted it on the second play from scrimmage. Tom Brady made the Jets pay immediately, converting a play action shot down the sideline to David Givens with the Jets biting heavily on the play fake. Forty-eight seconds in, the Patriots were up 7-0 and the crowd was silenced.

To their credit, the Jets hung tough. They mounted a 16-play, 83-yard scoring drive that culminated in a Chad Pennington rushing touchdown from a yard out to tie it up. Pennington found receiver Kevin Lockett for an 11-yard gain on 3rd-and-9 just over midfield to keep the drive alive.

After the defenses stiffened and the offenses traded three-and-outs, another New England linebacker would torment Pennington. Early in the second quarter, Willie McGinest batted a third down Pennington pass to himself and took it into the end zone from 15 yards out.

Up by a touchdown, the Patriots drove into Jets territory twice with a chance to extend the lead before the half, but neither was successful. After the Patriots failed on 4th-and-5 from the 25, the Jets took over down by seven just inside the two-minute warning. Pennington would find Santana Moss for 15 yards and Lockett for 23 early in the drive to cross the 50-yard line, and a 16-yard completion to Chris Baker with under a minute to go would help set up a 29-yard Doug Brien field goal to pull within four at the break.

Like Tom Brady did to open the first half, he would find David Givens for a touchdown to start the second. After Bethel Johnson returned the kickoff to New England’s 40, Brady hit Givens over the middle for a 16-yard gain. A few plays later, Antowain Smith took a toss play 23 yards as the Patriots entered the red zone for the first and only time that night. Brady and Givens would connect in the back corner of the end zone on a play-action pass to extend New England’s lead to 21-10.

Now up by two scores, the Patriots began to lock in on defense. The Jets drove close to the red zone on the following drive, but Pennington would throw his third pick of the night as Ty Law shut down Santana Moss in the end zone. They would score on the next drive, but it took a ball bouncing off Tyrone Poole to Curtis Conway for a conversion on 3rd and 22 for the Jets to get deep into New England territory. Pennington would take it in for his second rushing score of the night from the 10-yard line later in the drive, but his attempt on the ensuing 2-point conversion had no chance. The Patriots still led 21-16, and the Jets would never get closer.

On their next possession, Pennington would find another New England defender. This time, it was Rodney Harrison down the sideline. Once again, the Patriots were not able to build off of it. Charlie Weis called David Givens to throw the ball on a reverse, and he promptly threw it directly to Jets defensive back Tyrone Carter. New England would get the ball back about a minute later after Richard Seymour and Willie McGinest combined for a third down sack.

Thanks to a third down conversion to Christian Fauria, the Patriots were able to run the clock near the two-minute warning before Ken Walter’s 26-yard punt gave the Jets the ball one final time at their own 18. Pennington moved the chains twice with check-downs, but a potential go-ahead drive was stopped short of midfield when he sailed a pass down the seam that was picked off by Eugene Wilson. One kneel-down later, and the Patriots were one win away from home field advantage in the AFC.

When it was all said and done, New England’s defense finished the game with five interceptions, four sacks, and a touchdown. While the Jets would out-gain New England 321 and 271, Pennington’s turnovers were too much for them to overcome.

Game Highlights:

Other game notes: The most notable moment from this game happened on the field, but not within the white lines. Before halftime as the Jets staged their field goal drive, ESPN’s Suzy Kolber tried to interview Hall of Famer and former Jets QB Joe Namath. Things did not go as planned, with Namath declining to answer the second question and instead stating his desire to kiss Kolber.

On the field, the ESPN crew was focusing on a situation between Patriots defensive tackle Ted Washington and Jets center Kevin Mawae, who was wired for sound. Washington’s agent accused the Jets offensive lineman of intentionally breaking his leg when the teams met in Week 3. The situation was defused early, though, when Mawae approached Washington and explained that he had not done it on purpose while the two made up.

While Mawae went on to his fifth of six consecutive Pro Bowls that year, the rest of their line struggled against New England’s blitz. That made it quite a shock when I consulted their coaching staff and saw the name of their offensive line coach: Doug Marrone. Let’s hope he’s learned a thing or two in 22 years.

The David Givens interception is one that is mentioned later on by Josh McDaniels in a Do Your Job special. After the play, the Patriots made the decision not to have someone other than Tom Brady throw the football when the offense was on the field. It would be Julian Edelman who would break that streak over a decade later in the 2014 divisional round against the Baltimore Ravens, a play that resulted in a touchdown to Danny Amendola.

Elsewhere in sports: Around the league that week, the Atlanta Falcons nearly blew a 30-7 fourth quarter lead in the Saturday early afternoon game. Three Brad Johnson touchdown passes to Charles Lee, Keenan McCardell, and Jameel Cook brought the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to within two points with 27 seconds remaining, but the two-point conversion was unsuccessful with Johnson’s pass getting batted down at the line of scrimmage.

On Sunday night, the Denver Broncos went into Indianapolis and clinched a playoff spot, scoring touchdowns on four consecutive possessions behind a running game that went for 238 yards on Sunday Night Football. That’s a feat that would not be repeated when the teams met in the wild card round in Indianapolis two weeks later.

On Monday Night Football, Brett Favre threw for 399 yards and four touchdowns one day after his father died. The Packers routed the Raiders in Oakland 41-7, keeping Green Bay alive in the race for the NFC North.

---

Win No. 12: Patriots 31, Bills 0​

2003 Week 17 | Dec. 27, 2003, 1:35 pm. ET | Gillette Stadium

Setting the scene: The Patriots came into this game with an 11-game winning streak, and hosting the Bills, who they had famously lost to on opening weekend, 31-0. It was quite a different matchup this second time, as the Patriots had locked up a first-round bye and the Bills were 6-9, and hadn’t been over .500 since before Halloween.

The Patriots looked at this game as a chance to show everyone that they weren’t the same team who started the season, and that they were, in fact, the best team in the AFC, and perhaps the NFL. Of course, it might not seem like they could prove that against the lowly Bills, but they sure acted like they could.

Game breakdown: The Patriots started out the game by driving down the field on the first possession and scoring a touchdown. Tom Brady went 6-for-7 on the drive, and finished off with a 1-yard touchdown pass to Daniel Graham. The Bills and Drew Bledsoe responded by throwing an interception on the third play of the drive; Tedy Bruschi pressured Bledsoe into a bad throw and Mike Vrabel picked off the errant pass to set the Patriots up with great field position, which they cashed in on eight plays later with a 9-yard touchdown to make it 14-0.

After another stop by the Patriots, the Bills strip-sacked Brady and took over inside the New England 30. The Bills could only pick up 3 yards, however, and would have to settle for a field goal attempt, which they missed. Not only did they miss it, but they didn’t snap the ball in time, so they were pushed back another five yards, moving them out of field goal range. The Bills went for it on 4th-and-12, and Bledsoe actually checked it down, but it was incomplete anyway. The Patriots responded by going 68 yards in 11 plays to extend the lead to 21-0.

The teams exchanged punts until the Bills got into the red zone for the first time in the game. They got to 3rd-and-7 from the 15, and Bledsoe was sacked by Rodney Harrison. Ryan Lindell missed another field goal (this one actually counted), and the Bills still couldn’t get on the board. The Patriots, as they always seemed to do during this streak, capitalized off the mistake and drove 70 yards for another touchdown, this one putting them up 28-0. The game was still in the second quarter at that point.

The second half was more of the same. A few highlights were Adam Vinatieri somehow missing a 24-yard field goal off the uprights, and the Bills having an 11-play, 37-yard drive that ended in a punt; a drive that averages just over 3 yards per play and goes longer than 10 plays is nothing short of impressive. Vinatieri would end up making another 24-yard field goal attempt, after another Bills turnover. The turnover was a strip sack of Bledsoe by Bruschi, and it would be the last play of the game for the ex-Patriots QB, as the Bills would pull him after it.

The sequence that is probably remembered the most by Patriots fans is the one that ended the game. The Patriots pinned the Bills at the 2-yard line, and the Bills’ backup quarterback, Travis Brown, drove them the length of the field to try to score. He almost did it with a pass to Dave Moore, but special teamer Shawn Mayer made a touchdown-saving tackle. It looked like the clock might expire, but the Bills called timeout to be able to run a few more plays to try to break the shutout. The Patriots responded by waiting for the Bills to bring their offense out and calling their own timeout to try to keep the shutout in tact.

The tactic worked, as Brown was picked in the end zone by Larry Izzo. The Gillette crowd, and Patriots sideline, went nuts. Somehow, the Patriots had bookended their season with 31-0 games against the Bills. As someone who was at the game, and was also at both home playoff games, the crowd might’ve been more excited about the Izzo interception than any other play that season.

Game highlights:

Other game notes: Tom Brady would finish the day throwing four touchdowns passes to four different players. He ended the season with 23 touchdown passes and 12 interceptions, and not one receiver with over 803 receiving yards, but five over 400 yards. The Patriots also didn’t have a player rush for more than 650 yards, but they had two players rush for over 600.

The defense was dominant, with 29 interceptions, 18 forced fumbles, 41 sacks, and 6 defensive touchdowns. If you include the kick return touchdown by Bethel Johnson, they would finish the season with seven non-offensive touchdowns.

Elsewhere in sports: The most noteworthy game in this week was the Minnesota Vikings against the Arizona Cardinals. The Vikings had a very simple job: win. With a win, they would make the playoffs, and with a loss they would be eliminated. Up 14-6 in the fourth quarter, they picked off Josh McCown in field goal range. They weren’t able to get a first down and had to settle for a field goal with 6:52 left to go up 17-6. They wouldn’t get the ball back.

The Cardinals drove down and scored when McCown hit Steve Bush for a 2-yard touchdown. The ensuing two-point try was unsuccessful, so the Cardinals were still down by 5. They then recovered an onside kick, and got the ball all the way down to the 9-yard line. They were forced to use their last timeout when McCown was sacked back at the 17, making it do-or-die time. On third down, McCown was sacked again, this time at the 28, and fumbled. The Cardinals recovered, but had to scramble to run one final play before the clock ran out, since they were out of timeouts.

What followed was one of the craziest finishes in NFL history, with McCown hitting Nate Poole on an absolutely crazy play — one that wouldn’t have counted in today’s NFL (since he was forced out of bounds before he got his second foot down). The rules back then rewarded a touchdown to the offense anyway. The Cardinals finished their 4-12 season with a win, and the Vikings, who started the year 6-0, were eliminated from the playoffs on the final day, and the final play, of the season.

Source: https://www.patspulpit.com/2025/7/1...-streak-revisited-perfect-reversal-jets-bills

 

[New England Patriots]

New England Patriots links 7/15/25 - Riding the defense to top of the AFC East

Photo by Jaiden Tripi/Getty Images

Daily news and links for Tuesday.

TEAM TALK

• Mike Dussault’s Training Camp Preview: Defensive Line. Training camp will be a proving ground for young players looking to cement spots in the rotation behind cornerstones Milton Williams and Christian Barmore.
• Mike Dussault’s Training Camp Preview: Safeties. With Kyle Dugger returning healthy following ankle issues throughout 2024, he and Jabrill Peppers form a nasty, downhill tandem that will be central to the defense’s identity.
• Highlights: Inside Drake Maye’s Youth Football Camp. (1.30 min. video)

LOCAL LINKS

• Tyler Sullivan (CBS Sports) Winning the AFC East: What each team needs to do to win division. Patriots: Produces a top-five defense in the NFL.
• Conor Ryan notes The Athletic lists third-year pro Keion White as New England’s top ‘breakout’ candidate for the 2025 season. “Now with Mike Vrabel in charge, it’s time for White to look like the player he was early last season.”
• Sara Marshall points out how K’Lavon Chaisson, the Patriots’ most under-the-radar pass rusher, is doing all the right work to potentially outshine his new teammates during the 2025 season.
• Mark Daniels thumbnails 5 under-the-radar Patriots who might surprise you in training camp: Edge K’Lavon Chaisson, WR Efton Chism III, LB Jack Gibbens, WR Mack Hollins, DT Jacquelin Roy.
• Alex Barth writes that crunch time is approaching for the NFL’s second-round draft picks.
• Sophie Weller wonders if RB TreVeyon Henderson will follow suit behind fellow 2nd-round rookie, Chargers’ WR Tre Harris, and hold out.
• Ian Logue’s Patriots News: Team might be facing an issue ahead of camp as TreVeyon Henderson remains unsigned; ‘A little kick in the ass’ for Stevenson? More.
• Nick Goss explores whether the Patriots should pursue 49ers WR Jauan Jennings, who reportedly wants a new contract or a trade.

NATIONAL NEWS

• Albert Breer (SI) NFL Takeaways: 10 things we’ll talk about When NFL training camps start. Top storylines that will take center stage between now and Week 1. No. 6. Second-year quarterbacks.
• Alex Ballentine (Bleacher Report) Each NFL team’s updated cap space and biggest question heading into training camp. Patriots: Cap space: $61 million; Team Needs: Edge, WR, CB, S, OT; Biggest question: Is there enough wide receiver talent for Drake Maye to continue progression?
• Bill Barnwell (ESPN) Ranking best NFL teams since 2000: Top 25 over past 25 years. Patriots: 2001, 2014, 2018 earn Honorable mentions. No. 11 2016, No. 7 2003, No. 3 2004. No. 1 2007.
• Staff (ESPN) Year 2 player spotlight: Drake Maye among popular breakouts.
• Nick Shook (NFL.com) All-Under-25 Team. No Pats.
• Jeremy Fowler (ESPN) Execs, coaches, scouts rank NFL’s top 10 QBs for 2025. No Pats.
• Jeremy Fowler (ESPN) Execs, coaches, scouts rank NFL’s top 10 off-ball linebackers for 2025. No Pats.
• Bridget Reilly (NY Post) Garrett Wilson gets his Jets payday with historic $130 million deal.

Source: https://www.patspulpit.com/2025/7/1...-25-riding-the-defense-to-top-of-the-afc-east

 

[New England Patriots]

#Post Pulpit Mailbag: Submit your questions for this week

Submit your questions down below.

The New England Patriots will soon report back to Foxboro as the official start of training camp is just over one week away.

So, submit any questions — or whatever else is on your mind — down in the comments below or on Twitter using #PostPulpit.

Stay tuned for Friday’s updated mailbag.

Source: https://www.patspulpit.com/2025/7/15/24468465/patriots-mailbag-submit-questions

 

[New England Patriots]

New England Patriots links 7/16/25 - Spotlight on the Cornerbacks

CB Alex Austin runs drills | Photo by Danielle Parhizkaran/The Boston Globe via Getty Images

Daily news and links for Wednesday.

TEAM TALK

• Training Camp Previews: QB - WR - TE - RB - OL - DL - S.
• Alexandra Francisco reports opening day of Patriots training camp will feature a dog adoption event.
• Coming this Friday: Episode 2 of Forged in Foxborough. (1.50 min. video)
• Patriots Unfiltered: Biggest training camp storylines and positional battles to watch for. (2 hours)

LOCAL LINKS

• Mike D’Abate’s Patriots’ training camp preview: Cornerbacks. ‘Led by second-team All-Pro Christian Gonzalez, New England bolstered their prowess at the position by signing veteran Carlton Davis III this offseason. New England’s new addition will join incumbents Marcus Jones, Alex Austin, Marcellas Dial, Isaiah Bolden and rookie Kobee Minor on a talented but crowded depth chart.’ More.
• Matthew Schmidt highlights DeMario Douglas on the Pats’ decision to bring in more talent at the WR position. “I feel like they added great strength and competition to our room.”
• Sara Marshall talks about heading into training camp with rookie TreVeyon Henderson still not under contract.
• Sara Marshall notes that the ongoing legal issues with Quinshon Judkins proves the Patriots won the battle of the running backs over the Browns. /I’ll celebrate after Henderson signs.
• Ryan McLaughlin spotlights Drake Maye stepping up as the leader this team desperately needs.
• Karen Guregian projects the 53-man roster ahead of training camp. Out: WRs Javon Baker and Ja’Lynn Polk.
• WEEI guest Tom E. Curran told “Jones and Keefe” why he believes the Patriots should be the second-best team in the AFC East this season despite coming off of a four-win season in 2024.
• Ian Logue’s Patriots News: Bourne provides look behind the curtain; Maye has a lot to prove.
• Alex Barth’s Patriots Mailbag: Getting ready for training camp.
• Michael DeVito discusses Matt Holder identifying the Patriots who deserved a spot in the Division’s 2025 All-Star team pre-training camp. The glaring exception was Hunter Henry.
• Jarrett Bailey notes the Patriots’ best offseason addition wasn’t a player.
• Nick Goss notes the 2007 Patriots were ranked No. 1 on ESPN’s ranking of the top 25 NFL teams of the last 25 years. No team can statistically compare to the 2007 Patriots, even though they didn’t win the Super Bowl.
• Sara Marshall says the Patriots were just handed 120 million reasons to get their next big contract done: New England now knows how much it will take to extend Christian Gonzalez next offseason.
• Nick O’Malley spotlights how the Jets just paid out a quarter-billion dollars to 2 players in 2 days.
• Ryan McLaughlin notes Jerod Mayo’s mess in 2024 didn’t make the NFL’s disaster coach list.

NATIONAL NEWS

• Ben Solak (ESPN) Previewing the top storylines for 2025 NFL training camps. Training camp battles to watch: Patriots wide receiver. /Click for commentary.
• Jared Dubin (CBS Sports) Most important non-QB for every NFL team: These players will go a long way in determining their club’s success. Patriots: OT Will Campbell. /Click for commentary.
• Don Van Natta Jr. (ESPN) Bill Belichick says he took ‘big risk’ taking Patriots job. /Hos long til training camp?!?
• Top 100 Players of 2025 (NFL.com) Nos. 100-91 - 90-81 - 80-77.
• Gennaro Filice (NFL.com) NFL’s top 10 defenses in 2025? Broncos edge out Eagles and Ravens for No. 1 spot; Patriots will rise. Patriots 9th. /Click for commentary.
• Jeremy Fowler (ESPN) Execs, coaches, scouts rank the NFL’s top 10 WRs for 2025. No Pats.
• Damian Parson (Bleacher Report) Five second-year WRs primed to break out in 2025 NFL season. No Pats.
• Matt Holder (Bleacher Report) 5 edge-rushers 25 and under to buy stock in heading into 2025 season. No Pats.
• Alex Kay (Bleacher Report) Trade packages 49ers must consider for Jauan Jennings instead of a new contract.
• Ryan Dunleavy (NY Post) Jets give historic $120.4M contract to Sauce Gardner a day after Garrett Wilson deal.
• Gary Davenport (Bleacher Report) Projected Contracts for the NFL’s biggest 2026 free agents.

Source: https://www.patspulpit.com/2025/7/1...ws-links-7-16-25-spotlight-on-the-cornerbacks

 

[New England Patriots]

Patriots training camp preview: Robert Spillane ready to lead linebacker group

Photo by Danielle Parhizkaran/The Boston Globe via Getty Images

Patriots training camp is set to begin on Wednesday, July 23.

New England Patriots rookies and veterans will soon report back to Gillette Stadium as training camp is set to kick off. For the now Mike Vrabel-led Patriots, their first practice of the summer will begin on Wednesday, July 23 at 10:30 a.m. ET.

Before the players and coaches take the field, our preview series will continue with New England’s linebacker position.

*Denotes player on the Pats Pulpit 53-man roster projection

Depth chart​

Starters: Robert Spillane*, Jahlani Tavai* | Backups: Christian Elliss*, Jack Gibbens*, Marte Mapu*, Monty Rice, Cam Riley (U-R)

New England’s first major move in free agency saw the team hand linebacker Robert Spillane a three-year, $33 million contract. The 29-year-old began his career under Vrabel in Tennessee and went on to be an underrated player for the Raiders the past two seasons racking up 140-plus tackles each year. Spillane now is set to take over for Ja’Whaun Bentley in the middle of New England’s defense and likely wear the green dot.

Outside of Spillane, Jahlani Tavai survived the initial wave of releases this offseason even after a challenging 2024 season without Bentley besides him. Tavai opened the spring as an early-down starter next to Spillane before suffering a calf injury that sidelined him for minicamp.

New England also retained Christian Elliss and signed another former Titan in Jack Gibbens in free agency, while Marte Mapu repped primarily with the linebackers when healthy this spring. Monty Rice and Cam Riley round out the group and were around the football at times during OTAs and minicamp.

Key Question: Who will play next to Robert Spillane?​

As Spillane is locked in as the leader of the linebacker group (and potentially the defense), his primary running mate remains up in the air. After holding the role early in camp, Tavai, who remains one of New England’s lone bigger bodies at the position, could slot right back in when healthy.

When Tavai was sidelined, Elliss saw the largest increase of snaps. Elliss was one of the lone bright spots on New England last season which led to the Patriots matching his offer sheet in free agency. He’d provide a more athletic option next to Spillane. Jack Gibbens could also push for a larger role with his experience in Vrabel’s defense.

X-Factor: Marte Mapu​

The versatile Mapu has primarily spent his first two NFL seasons along the backend when healthy. During OTAs, Mapu instead transitioned fully back to the linebacker room where he mostly played at the collegiate level. His size and athleticism are intriguing to watch at the position, but the mental side of the game must catch up. And after spending parts of the spring limited, health remains a major question mark for the 25-year-old who played just 10 games last season.

Source: https://www.patspulpit.com/2025/7/1...raining-camp-preview-linebacker-spillane-mapu

 

[New England Patriots]

New England Patriots links 7/17/25 - Diggs PUP or ready to play?

Photo by Matt Stone/MediaNews Group/Boston Herald via Getty Images

Daily news and links for Thursday

TEAM TALK

• Mike Dussault’s Training Camp Preview: Cornerbacks. This may be the most top-heavy unit on the team. Christian Gonzalez is coming off a Second-Team All-Pro season, and the addition of Carlton Davis gives the Pats a formidable pair of starting cornerbacks. More.
• Mike Dussault’s Training Camp Preview: Linebackers. Robert Spillane will take the lead not only as a play-caller but likely as the emotional tone-setter for the remade Patriots defense. More.

LOCAL LINKS

• Mike D’Abate’s Patriots’ training camp preview: Safeties. In addition to presumed starters Jabrill Peppers and Kyle Dugger, New England’s safeties group consists of Jaylinn Hawkins, Brendan Schooler, Marcus Epps, Dell Pettus and rookie Craig Woodson.
• Mark Morse continues his positional analysis of the 90-man camp roster: Defensive Backs.
• Alex Barth notes Christian Gonzalez received high praise from NFL executives.
• Jordy McElroy lists one burning question at each position on offense. QB: Will Drake Maye make a Year 2 leap?
• Ian Logue notes the latest QB rankings show Drake Maye flying under the radar heading into his second season.
• Sara Marshall suggests Stefon Diggs’ injury setback might force Patriots into WR panic mode
• Matthew Schmidt relays Chad Graff (The Athletic) saying Stefon Diggs will likely begin the season on the PUP list, meaning he will miss the first four games of the regular season — Should the Pats add another WR?
• Mark Daniels thumbnails five rookies who should make an impact immediately.
• Matthew Schmidt points out how once-promising weapon TE Jaheim Bell is now a depressing afterthought.
• Tom E. Curran and Phil Perry discuss what the Pats should do with their remaining cap space. “There should be real pressure on this team to add talent around its quarterback.”
• Ian Logue’s Patriots News: Belichick lashes back at Kraft’s comments; New Patriots trailer dropped. /”lashes back”?? How about, “responds”? Insert eye-roll emoji here.
• A Clare Perspective podcast: Clare welcomes Mike Dussault to talk all things Patriots. (31 min.)

NATIONAL NEWS

• Analysts (PFF) NFL position rankings: Grading all 32 teams at every unit.
• Mike Florio (ProFootballTalk) Second-rounder Alfred Collins (43rd overall pick) agrees to terms. ‘Of the slotted $10.3 million deal, $9 million was reportedly guaranteed. That’s 87.37 of the contract. Last year, the 43rd pick had 77.98 percent of his contract fully guaranteed.’ /Maybe there’s hope the dominos will start to fall.
• Eric Edholm (NFL.com) One MVP candidate from each AFC team. Patriots: Drake Maye. /Click for commentary.
• Jeremy Fowler (ESPN) Execs, coaches, scouts rank NFL’s top 10 CBs for 2025. No. 6 Christian Gonzalez. “I think Gonzo is the next great one,” a veteran NFL assistant said. “Skills, patience, length. He’s the closest thing to Pat [Surtain II]. Smooth, big athlete, travels a lot, can matchup against the best guy.” More.
• Staff (ESPN) Who fell out of the top 10 player rankings in 2025? WR: Stefon Diggs. Safety: Kyle Dugger.
• NFL Live (ESPN) Why Booger sees the Patriots improving under Mike Vrabel. (1 min. video)
• Matt Verderame (SI) The biggest current rival for every AFC team. Patriots: Jets. /Not sure I agree with AFC East commentary.
• Conor Orr (SI) The 12 teams that can win Super Bowl LX. No Pats.
• Karl Rasmussen (SI) The biggest concern for every 2024 NFL playoff team heading into 2025 season. Patriots: ...
• Frank Schwab (Yahoo! Sports) NFL offseason power rankings: No. 11 Denver Broncos finally found a QB in Bo Nix.
• Myles Simmons (ProFootballTalk) Randy Moss: Tyreek Hill is “nowhere” all-time, top five in today’s game.
• Josh Alper (ProFootballTalk) Chargers unveil alternate uniforms for the 2025 season. /My EYES...
• Mike Florio (ProFootballTalk) NFL, NFLPA concealed another grievance ruling.
• Charles McDonald (Yahoo! Sports) NFLPA shrouded in secrets and competing interests needs to get its act together before next CBA negotiation.
• Andrew Peters (Bleacher Report) ESPY 2025 winners, awards results, recap, top moments and Twitter reaction.

Source: https://www.patspulpit.com/2025/7/17/24469268/patriots-news-links-7-17-25-diggs-pup-or-ready-to-play