What have we learned from Patriots training camp so far?
Through six training camp practices, there has been a lot to talk about with the Patriots. What have we learned about the team so far?
As I type this, there have been six practices for the New England Patriots during so far in 2022.
There have been ups and downs, good days and bad days, and everything in between. I guess in many ways it’s been a mostly normal camp thus far, and I don’t think that’s a bad thing.
With each training camp practice, a new storyline develops. Some days the offense might win the day, others the defense might, and there also may be players who have better days than some.
Through six practices, we’ve learned a few things from the New England Patriots and their training camp practices so far.
DeVante Parker and Mac Jones have some nice chemistry
It seems like with every practice, I’m reading something about DeVante Parker having an overall good day or making an insane catch. Him and Mac Jones seem to be developing some nice chemistry together, and that is excellent news.
If Parker can become a legitimate WR1 option in 2022, that bodes very well for Mac Jones’ chances at taking a massive leap.
Parker isn’t an elite player, but he doesn’t have to be in this offense.
Davon Godchaux extended, and Christian Barmore is really good
Godchaux’s $20 million extension that he signed a few days ago only reinforces the idea that he is a cornerstone piece on the defensive line. While this isn’t directly related to training camp, Godchaux has performed well there.
Another stud in camp so far is Christian Barmore, who may end up being the best player on the defensive side of the ball when the 2022 season ends. Barmore is constantly disrupting up front and winning in 1 vs. 1 drills. Look for Barmore to explode in year two.
Jalen Mills and Terrance Mitchell are the likely starting outside cornerbacks
Both Mills and Mitchell have enjoyed solid starts to camp. They seem to be consistent and reliable thus far.
Malcolm Butler has not fared the same. The 32 year old has been burned a few times and is not having the best of starts to camp.
Defense has had a stronger start than the offense
From what I can gather, the Patriots’ offense hasn’t been great compared to the defense. The offensive side of the ball does have more changes from 2021 to this year than the defense, so I guess it’s understandable.
They’re also going through a process of figuring out who the play caller is going to be.
Quarterbacks Mac Jones and Bailey Zappe haven’t been the most accurate, and the reshuffled offensive line has yet to gel. It is early, but it’s clear that the offense hasn’t been the best.
There are surely plenty more storylines to write about thus far during Patriots training camp, but I do think these are important points to hit on.