The New England Patriots announce dates for training camp: here's when you can go

It's that boring part of the offseason that doesn't leave much to look forward to. OTAs and minicamp are over, and all we have left is to wait for when the Patriots release the dates for training camp next month.

Fortunately, those dates were finally revealed on Thursday afternoon, and fans can now begin a countdown to the next time they'll see Patriots football again.

The report posted on the Patriots' website announced that veterans will return to Foxboro on Tuesday, July 25.

The first three dates of open practices were also announced and will be taking place on Wednesday, July 26, Thursday, July 27, and Friday, July 28. Details regarding the fourth practice of the summer are said to be revealed later, noting it will likely take place on Saturday, July 29, or Sunday, July 30.

For additional information and any updates about training camp, such as all practice times and added dates, it is suggested to save and periodically check New England's training camp website.

In addition to training camp dates, the Patriots also announced when they will hold joint practices with the Green Bay Packers and the Tennessee Titans.

"In addition, the Patriots announced that they will hold joint practice sessions at Green Bay on Wednesday, Aug. 16 and Thursday, Aug. 17 prior to the preseason game at Lambeau Field on Saturday, Aug. 19 and at Tennessee on Tuesday, Aug. 22 and Wednesday 23 prior to the preseason-finale against the Titans on Friday, Aug. 25."

Besides seeing your favorite team up close and personal, one of the best aspects of these practices is that they are free to attend.

Of course, it's all first come, first serve, and if you are hoping to get a closer view of the field, you should arrive early and expect thousands of fans to be there as well. Even if the Patriots aren't the same team they were just five years ago, New England fans are diehard (as most know) and essentially sell out practices every single summer.