Patriots hold full-pad practice, highlight red-zone success and injury updates
New England conducted a 120-minute full-pad session focusing on red-zone scenarios, saw wide receiver Romeo Doubs excel, and dealt with several injuries including cornerback Christian Gonzalez and lineman Ben Brown.
The New England Patriots ran a two-hour full-pad practice at Gillette Stadium on Saturday, concentrating on red-zone and end-of-game situations under sunny, mid-80s conditions. Coach Mike Vrabel addressed the absence of cornerback Christian Gonzalez, noting the issue stemmed from a practice incident rather than contract matters, and confirmed that the player is receiving treatment with trainer Frank Piraino.
Injuries kept several players out, including linemen Ben Brown and Andrew Rupcich, who were hurt Thursday night, and edge rusher Dre’Mont Jones, who left early for the medical shed. Brown is expected to miss multiple weeks, prompting the Patriots to sign depth linemen Darrian Dalcourt and Joe Michalski.
Free-agent wide receiver Romeo Doubs impressed throughout the session, catching multiple high-point touchdowns in full-team drills. Vrabel praised Doubs, saying, "Just new offense, new year, figuring out the player, getting to know him. Really, a lot of positive things, I think, trending in the right direction."
Other receivers also found success in the red zone. Mack Hollins secured two play-action crosses and a touchdown from quarterback Tommy DeVito, while A.J. Brown, Hunter Henry and Kyle Williams each recorded scores on various routes. Rookie edge defender Gabe Jacas displayed physicality, notably forcing a potential sack on Will Campbell.
Cornerback Carlton Davis, returning from a hamstring injury, struggled, conceding several touchdowns in 7-on-7 and 11-on-11 drills. Charles Woods, back in a non-contact jersey, also faced multiple scores.
Kicker Rodrigo Borregales rebounded from a rough preseason debut, converting all six attempts in practice with long-snapper Julian Ashby. The session also featured notable performances from defensive tackles Will Campbell, Marcus Bryant and Caleb Lomu in one-on-one drills.
The Patriots will hold a closed walkthrough on Sunday and have joint practices scheduled with the Philadelphia Eagles later in the week.