Patriots' Drake Maye and Stefon Diggs lit up training camp on July 30, connecting for multiple red zone TDs. See how their chemistry is shaping the offense.
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
The Gillette Stadium crowd got a tantalizing glimpse of the future on Wednesday as the Patriots dedicated Day 7 of training camp to red zone execution. The star of the show was the burgeoning connection between quarterback Drake Maye and star receiver Stefon Diggs, who hooked up for multiple scores, sending a clear message that this offense plans to be lethal inside the 20-yard line.
It's critical that they come back in shape, that they're ready to go for training camp.
The focus of today's practice was crystal clear: finish drives. The offense spent the bulk of the session running red zone drills, and the Maye-to-Diggs duo was electric. Maye showed poise and accuracy, finding Diggs on several short routes for touchdowns that drew loud cheers from the fans. Diggs, who assured reporters his knee is feeling great (while deftly sidestepping questions about a recent viral video), looks every bit the dominant target the Patriots hoped for. This connection is the single most important development for the offense, and today was a massive step in the right direction.
While the passing game sizzled, a ground war is brewing for the starting running back spot. Incumbent Rhamondre Stevenson and impressive rookie TreVeyon Henderson are locked in a tight competition. Both backs received significant reps with the first team, showcasing their different styles. Stevenson's powerful, decisive running was on display, while Henderson's speed and agility added a different dimension. Coach Vrabel is clearly giving both a legitimate shot to win the job, making this one of the most compelling position battles to watch as camp unfolds.
Head Coach Mike Vrabel is leaving no doubt about the standard he expects. His emphasis on conditioning and preparation was palpable, underscored by his comment that players must be 'ready to go' from day one. This new-era toughness is also reflected on the defensive side of the ball. New additions like defensive tackle Milton Williams and cornerback Carlton Davis are already being praised as key contributors, making their presence felt in early drills and setting a physical tone for the defense.
Amidst the on-field action, the organization took a moment to honor its history by announcing the 2025 Patriots Hall of Fame class. While celebrating the past, the team's focus remains squarely on the future. The schedule is set, with fans now circling August 6 on their calendars for a joint practice with the Washington Commanders. That will serve as the final tune-up before the preseason officially kicks off against those same Commanders at Gillette Stadium on August 8.
Day 7 was a resounding success, filled with positive signs for the offense and a clear sense of identity being forged under Coach Vrabel. The Maye-to-Diggs connection is real, the backfield battle is heating up, and the defense is looking stout. All eyes now turn to the upcoming joint practices with Washington, which will be the first true test for this revamped Patriots squad. If today was any indication, they'll be more than ready for the challenge.
