Patriots hold walkthrough practice, reveal depth chart updates
The New England Patriots conducted a walkthrough session on Aug. 5, highlighting roster changes and giving playing time to several backups as the team finalizes its preseason depth chart.
The New England Patriots held a walkthrough practice on Wednesday, Aug. 5, after five fully padded sessions. The slower-pace drill allowed coaches to assess players on two fields and update the depth chart.
Wide receiver Romeo Doubs was absent, while fullback Reggie Gilliam returned after resting due to lingering injuries. Tight end C.J. Dippre participated in uniform for the first time this summer, indicating his activation from the physically unable to perform list.
Efton Chism III received a significant number of snaps in the first-team offense, often lining up with A.J. Brown and DeMario Douglas, and was noted for his versatility and run-blocking duties. Quarterback Drake Maye worked primarily with Brown, Mack Hollins, Kayshon Boutte, Douglas and Chism, with Kyle Williams joining later in the session.
Running back Terrell Jennings, recently cleared from the non-football injury list, joined Rhamondre Stevenson and TreVeyon Henderson in Maye’s offense, giving him a chance to compete for the third-string spot. On the opposite field, Lan Larison, Jam Miller and Myles Montgomery participated in the backfield rotation.
At cornerback, Charles Woods continued as the top defender opposite Christian Gonzalez, while rookies Karon Prunty and Channing Canada worked behind them. Both showed activity in coverage during the drill.
Special-teams units practiced punt blocks, protection schemes and kick returns, with players such as Gilliam, Khalil Jacobs, Chad Muma, Elijah Ponder, Namdi Obiazor and Jennings taking part in punt-block formations. Mike Brown led the personal protectors, and several receivers, including Chism and Lan Larison, handled return duties.
Offensive tackle Will Campbell wore an arm brace resembling one used by Rob Gronkowski. The starting offensive line remained unchanged, and safety Dell Pettus appeared to move into a third-safety role after mixing with Craig Woodson and Kevin Byard. The practice concluded with Hail Mary scenarios. The Patriots will resume shell drills on Thursday at 10:15 a.m. ET.