New England Patriots: 4 standouts from training camp so far

Find out which four players stood out the most in New England’s first four training camp practices.

The New England Patriots have wrapped up their first four training camp sessions. A handful of players turned heads, breaking up passes and hauling in touchdowns.

Training camp has only just begun, so it’s best not to get carried away with initial impressions. With that being said, there’s no denying some players have stood out.

These are six players who have done just that.

CB Eric Rowe

Cornerback Eric Rowe has made no shortage of big plays in the Patriots’ first series of practices. The former Eagles defensive back was shipped to New England at the end of last offseason in exchange for a conditional 2018 draft pick. It’s safe to say Rowe’s done a superb job standing out in his first training camp with the Patriots.

On Day 1, the Providence Journal’s Mark Daniels reported that Rowe collected a pass breakup and an interception in the team’s first practice. He continued to turn heads on the second day of camp, tallying three more pass deflections and a second interception, per NESN’s Doug Kyed.

The Boston Herald’s Jeff Howe praised Rowe’s second interception, calling it “a really nice play”:

"“The second [interception] was a really nice play by Rowe, who swatted the ball from Devin Lucien’s grasp and corralled it as he hit the ground in the end zone.”"

Although he currently sits behind Stephon Gilmore and Malcolm Butler as the team’s third cornerback, The 6-foot-1 corner possesses size better suited for the perimeter.

In the preseason, New England should consider testing Rowe and Gilmore on the outside with Butler manning the slot.

Entering training camp, Rowe appeared as a lock to make the Patriots 53-man roster. If he continues to impress, he could earn opportunities as a starter.