Patriots finish preseason opener with 13-13 tie against Colts

New England Patriots and Indianapolis Colts played to a 13-13 tie in the Patriots’ first preseason game of 2026 on Thursday night. The contest offered a chance for coaches to assess depth players ahead of the regular season.

Kicker Andy Borregales, in his sophomore year, missed three field-goal attempts, including attempts from beyond 50 yards, after previously converting two from 40 and 52 yards. Head coach Mike Vrabel did not comment publicly on the performance.

The Patriots suffered injuries to interior offensive linemen Ben Brown and Andrew Rupcich, both of whom left the field and were taken to the locker room for evaluation. The team hopes the injuries are not serious, as depth on the line is already limited.

Depth tackles Marcus Bryant and Dametrious Crownover each posted solid outings, providing reassurance after the linemen injuries. Their performances may influence future snap counts for the second-unit line.

Second-string quarterback Tommy DeVito started and showed flashes of accuracy, completing a long pass to Cam Dorner before a penalty nullified the play, and delivering a touchdown pass to Kyle Williams. He also missed several throws, including a potential deep touchdown to Williams.

New England incurred five penalties totaling 35 yards, including two ineligible-man-downfield calls and a holding penalty on Lorenz Metz in the fourth quarter. Coaches indicated that discipline will be a focus in upcoming practices.

Edge rushers Jesse Luketa and Bradyn Swinson generated pressure on the Colts’ quarterbacks, contributing to a sack by Joshua Farmer and an interception by John Saunders Jr. Both edge players are competing for roster spots.

Safety John Saunders Jr. recorded an interception with a notable return and was credited with a forced fumble, highlighting his potential for a depth role in the secondary.

Wide receiver Cameron Dorner, an undrafted rookie, saw limited targets but made a catch that was called back due to a penalty and later secured a screen for a first down. His continued performance may affect his standing among the receiving corps.

With running back Terrell Jennings placed on season-ending injured reserve, the third-string running back position is open. Jam Miller, Lan Larison, JaMichael Hasty and Hassan Haskins each received carries, with Miller and Haskins displaying a more bruising style while Larison and Hasty showed versatility as pass-catchers and return specialists.

The Patriots will host the Philadelphia Eagles for joint practices on Aug. 19-20 before a preseason game the following Saturday, providing another opportunity to evaluate the roster against a strong opponent.