Patriots and Eagles hold first joint practice, Maye shines in passing attack

The New England Patriots hosted the Philadelphia Eagles for the first of two joint practices on Wednesday, a two-hour, full-pad session held under sunny, high-80s conditions at Gillette Stadium. Coach Mike Vrabel said the drills would serve as a "good way to gauge" both teams and noted the Eagles have been a strong football team for some time.

The practice featured full-team work before moving to red-zone scenarios the next day. A brief altercation occurred when Eagles defensive lineman Jalen Carter threw a punch during a field-goal unit, and rookie Gabe Jacas appeared to dispute a block, but both coaches expressed overall satisfaction with how the session unfolded.

Patriots quarterback Drake Maye completed his first 13 passes, connecting with receivers A.J. Brown, Romeo Doubs, DeMario Douglas and Kayshon Boutte, and finished the day in field-goal range, leading to a 52-yard kick by Andy Borregales. Maye’s performance contrasted with a previous joint practice where he threw an interception.

"I think they’ll be a good way to gauge that. Yes, I think that this is intentional," Vrabel said.

"They’re here. They’re rehabbing. They’re working through the return to play," Vrabel added regarding players on the injured list.

Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown highlighted his own effort, noting a missed catch early in the drill but later catching four passes from Maye during full-team work. The Patriots’ offensive line, led by Will Campbell and Alijah Vera-Tucker, provided solid protection, while the Eagles’ line helped their unit dominate the run game.

New England generated five turnovers, including interceptions by Craig Woodson, Marcus Jones, Kindle Vildor and John Saunders. Saunders’ pick marked his third of camp and fourth of the summer.

The Patriots will return to the field Thursday for the second joint practice, shifting focus to red-zone scenarios.