Training camp officially begins Tuesday, and with it comes the annual battle for roster spots, depth chart positioning and the attention of a new coaching staff. There’s optimism in the air, competition everywhere and jobs on the line.
For the New England Patriots, this summer marks the first full camp under head coach Mike Vrabel — and while rookies and new faces draw attention, some returning players have plenty to prove.
Let’s start with rookie left tackle Will Campbell. Let’s be honest — it’s his job to lose. When you take a left tackle with the No. 4 overall pick, the expectation is he’s your Day 1 starter. He brings both a physical profile and a mean edge, but the Patriots need him to be more than just a high draft pick. They need him to be ready. The offensive line has been in flux the past few years, and if Campbell can protect the blind side and keep Drake Maye upright, it’ll eliminate one major question on a young offense.
Wide receiver Kendrick Bourne also enters camp with something to prove. After tearing his ACL in 2023, Bourne looked better as the season went on. He brings veteran savvy and energy, but the receiver room is deeper now, with the likes of Stefon Diggs, Mack Hollins, Kyle Williams, DeMario Douglas, Kayshon Boutte and second-year players Ja’Lynn Polk and Javon Baker all competing for spots. Bourne has been the subject of trade rumors the past couple of years and will need to fight for his role.
Back to the offensive line — Sidy Sow is a name worth watching. He didn’t play as much last year due to a change in scheme, but with Josh McDaniels back in town, his offense tends to work well with a player like Sow. Still, just because he fits the profile of a traditional McDaniels guard doesn’t mean his spot is secure. Sow can’t coast. He’ll have to earn a starting job, and camp is where that work begins.
Defensively, Christian Barmore’s return is a welcome sight. The talented defensive tackle missed most of last season dealing with blood clots, but when healthy, he’s disruptive and powerful — and arguably the Patriots’ best player. The team is hoping he returns to form and anchors the line alongside free-agent addition Milton Williams.
In the secondary, the arrival of veteran cornerback Carlton Davis provides immediate help. Not only does it give the Patriots a reliable No. 2 option opposite Christian Gonzalez, but it should also aid Maye’s development. Facing two proven corners in practice every day will accelerate the young quarterback’s learning curve. There’s no better way to improve than by going against real NFL talent.
Plenty can change over the next month, but first impressions matter. And for several Patriots — whether they’re rookies, returning from injury or simply fighting for snaps — the time to stand out is now.
