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Patriots defense shines in practice
Day 17 recap shows strong defensive play against Drake Maye and ongoing line rotation тестs
Day 17 recap highlights a strong defensive showing against Maye as New England tests line combinations in a closed session.
Patriots defense shines in practice against Drake Maye
The Patriots completed a 90-minute practice at Gillette Stadium after a trip to Minnesota. Several players were sidelined for the day, including Kyle Williams and Efton Chism III, while Rhamondre Stevenson and D.J. James returned from injury absence. Stevenson wore a red non-contact jersey but participated in running back drills, and James broke up a pass in drills as Drake Maye faced pressure in end-of-half situations.
Key Takeaways
"We'll continue to evaluate that spot and that rotation and where we're at competing and trying to make sure that we're giving everybody the opportunity in there, from the center and the left guard, and just trying to figure out what the best combination is."
Vrabel on ongoing offensive line rotation
"There’s still a role. It’s about trying to find the right combination and earn a role."
Eliot Wolf on Kyle Dugger's roster status
"The safety position is a lot based on communication."
Wolf on how to fit Dugger within the defense
"Dugger could still find a role if the communication clicks."
Editorial note on potential roster fit for Dugger
On defense the unit pressed Maye with a steady pass rush led by Harold Landry, and Maye was repeatedly forced into hurried throws. Robert Spillane also intercepted Maye in 7-on-7 red-area work, underscoring growing coverage impact. The day also highlighted the ongoing evaluation of the offensive line, with Jared Wilson returning to the starting left guard spot as Ben Brown shifts to the background. Vrabel said the club will continue to evaluate the guard-center mix, with Garrett Bradbury still at center, to find the best combination.
Highlights
- The defense is setting the pace in Foxboro this week
- End-of-half drills remind us this unit is still building confidence
- Line rotation is a moving target and that matters
- Dugger could still find a role if the communication clicks
The coming days will reveal how the front five solidifies and what that means for the preseason finale
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