It's time for Patriots players to put up or shut up at training camp

Now that training camp is underway, we're entering the part of the season where we find out who can play and who can't make it.

Mini-camp, a fun precursor to the football season, offers fans a first glimpse of the new draft picks and undrafted free agents. However, the actual test of a player's potential unfolds when they don full pads.

Football becomes much different when you're in a real game scenario compared to running around the field dressed like a flag football player. NFL game speed, physicality, and schemes can all impact a player's mental toughness and decision-making.

A player's speed, technique, strength, and toughness are genuinely tested in full-speed practices and full-contact preseason games, a stark contrast to the two-hand touch of mini-camp. For the rookies, it's a chance to see who is ready to transition from the college game to the NFL level.

Fans and coaches can see if the new receivers can get open in a real-game scenario, create separation, and make plays. Will they be strong enough to win one-on-one battles against NFL defensive backs? Do they have the necessary route running and playbook knowledge?

The same applies to the offensive line—when you're in shorts and T-shirts, it's about learning the playbook and working on technique.

But when the pads are on, and you're going full speed against another professional athlete in the trenches, coaches and fans get a look at who can pick up stunts and blitzes, who is and isn't strong enough, who has the skill and toughness to block NFL defensive linemen and linebackers, and who knows the playbook audibles in real-time.

One of the most anticipated parts of the team is the quarterback position. Moving from mini-camp to full-speed practices and full-contact games against NFL-level speed and defensive schemes is a game-changer. It's a new ball game, very different from college or mini-camp.

The first few days of training camp practice are complete, and now, the team is moving to full pads in preparation for their first preseason game. While expectations are low for this season, this team's future success greatly depends on the new players' ability to step up and adjust to NFL football.

The real preseason action begins on August 8 with their first preseason game.

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