Patriots camp (Aug 5): Drake Maye shines with TDs to Douglas & Henry, but a key injury and roster drama loom before facing the Commanders. Read the latest.
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
The pads were on and the intensity was high at Patriots training camp, with rookie quarterback Drake Maye putting on a show in red zone drills that has fans buzzing. But the optimism was tempered by a significant injury to a promising rookie and a surprising shake-up on the defensive depth chart, reminding everyone how quickly fortunes can change as the team shuffles its roster ahead of a crucial joint practice with the Washington Commanders.
Rookie QB Drake Maye threw multiple touchdowns to Demario Douglas, Hunter Henry, and fellow rookie TreVeyon Henderson, with Kayshon Boutte also scoring in two-minute drills.
In the most encouraging sign of training camp so far, rookie quarterback Drake Maye looked sharp and decisive during Tuesday's full-pads practice. With an emphasis on red zone execution, Maye repeatedly found the end zone, connecting for touchdowns with Demario Douglas, Hunter Henry, and rookie running back TreVeyon Henderson. He capped his impressive day by finding Kayshon Boutte for another score during a two-minute drill, showcasing a growing command of the offense and building chemistry with a variety of receivers. This performance is exactly what the coaching staff and fanbase have been hoping to see as he prepares for his first live action.
While the offense celebrated, the defense dealt with a major blow and a surprising development. Rookie cornerback Marcellas Dial, who had been turning heads, was carted off the field with what was later confirmed to be a season-ending torn ACL. In a separate, stunning move, rookie safety Craig Woodson was seen taking first-team reps ahead of veteran Kyle Dugger. With Dugger in a contract year and having some noted struggles in coverage, this could be a motivational tactic or a genuine sign that his spot on the roster isn't as secure as once believed.
The front office was busy solidifying the 90-man roster. The Patriots officially placed the injured Dial and defensive tackle Jaquelin Roy on Injured Reserve, ending their 2025 seasons. To fill the gaps, the team claimed cornerback Tre Avery off waivers from the 49ers and signed running back JaMycal Hasty, who returns after playing 15 games with the team last season. The team also signed rookie DT Bryce Ganious and released tight end Tyler Davis, who was a very recent addition.
The Patriots now turn their attention to a critical benchmark: a joint practice with the Washington Commanders on Wednesday. This session will be a major test for Drake Maye and the rebuilt offensive line, including rookie tackle Will Campbell, as they face a formidable defensive front. On the other side of the ball, the New England defense will get its first look at reigning Offensive Rookie of the Year, QB Jayden Daniels. The practice also marks the return of former Patriots Jonathan Jones and Deatrich Wise to Foxboro as opponents.
Tuesday was a whirlwind of promising flashes, harsh realities, and strategic maneuvering. The real test now arrives with the Washington Commanders. The upcoming joint practices will be the truest barometer yet for Drake Maye's progress and the offensive line's cohesion. All eyes will be on Foxboro to see if the practice field success can translate against a live, playoff-caliber opponent ahead of Friday's preseason opener.
