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65 years ago today the Patriots opened their very first training camp. The club welcomed 11 quarterbacks and eight centers on July 4, 1960, at the University of Massachusetts in Amherst. They would be joined a week later by another 100 or so men vying to make the 35-player regular season roster. Interestingly the townspeople (not the University) hosted the Patriots for a cookout on July 5. A different time, as they say, but reflective of the bucolic, small-town atmosphere of Amherst.
Alumni Field was completely inadequate for pro football. It might have passed for a Division 3 college program. A new concrete structure, the 17,000 seat Alumni Stadium, was not completed until 1965. The Patriots closed out their exhibition schedule that year by hosting the Oakland Raiders on August 28. Attendance was 3500 on a warrn Sunday afternoon. It was the first and last professional football game held in Amherst, Mass.
The Patriots would play their first regular season game on September 9 at BU's Nickerson Field.
Alumni Field was completely inadequate for pro football. It might have passed for a Division 3 college program. A new concrete structure, the 17,000 seat Alumni Stadium, was not completed until 1965. The Patriots closed out their exhibition schedule that year by hosting the Oakland Raiders on August 28. Attendance was 3500 on a warrn Sunday afternoon. It was the first and last professional football game held in Amherst, Mass.
The Patriots would play their first regular season game on September 9 at BU's Nickerson Field.
captain stone
Well-known member
That's because he fucking Sucks stopping the run.
WORST UFA signing of the offseason.
captain stone
Well-known member
Julia Ashby... Highly-touted... Long-Snapperhead...
Reiss has now Officially become a company Shill.
It’s almost a little too on the nose that the Patriots player stealing headlines and turning heads in spring practices is an unheralded, undersized slot receiver from a small school.
But it’s not hyperbole to say that no player did more to improve his standing on the depth chart than Efton Chism. To put it another way, when we came up with the idea for this series in which we’d zoom in on 10 important players ahead of training camp, Chism wasn’t even in consideration. Now he’s kicking it off.
Mike Vrabel praised the 23-year-old as “a talented player” who is dedicated and “studied extremely hard.” The head coach noted that it doesn’t take long to figure out which receivers quarterbacks trust — “it’s the ones they target,” he said. That clearly means Drake Maye already trusts Chism, given their work together this spring and the 50 catches Maye estimated Chism made.
So as the hype train rolls on for the 5-foot-10 receiver, let’s look at how Chism got here, what the future might hold and whether this might just be fool’s gold in spring sessions that favor receivers.
Chism broke out as a sophomore, notching 735 receiving yards and nine touchdowns in 13 games, while kicking off a streak of 53 straight games with at least one catch, a mark that broke Kupp’s FCS record.
He’s a slick route runner who easily got open against defenders and led all of the FCS in catches last season with 120 in 12 games.
Chism’s chances of getting drafted were dampened when he ran a 4.71-second 40-yard dash, but he posted elite numbers in the short shuttle and three-cone drill, which speak to his shiftiness. After going undrafted, he had a number of suitors and signed with the Patriots on a deal that guaranteed him $234,000, a massive haul for an undrafted player.
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He seems like a perfect fit for Josh McDaniels’ scheme, which has always utilized shifty slot receivers. McDaniels’ offense seems to make up for Chism’s lack of top-end speed by having him find soft spots in the coverage and running a bunch of underneath crossing routes.
Now, it’s worth noting that Vrabel wanted cornerbacks to pull up and not go for 50-50 balls during spring practices, but those practices still couldn’t have gone much better for Chism.
Given the nature of slot receivers, it’s unlikely both Douglas and Chism would ever be on the field at the same time. So even if Chism looks more likely than not to make the team at this point, he’s still likely to be stuck behind Douglas on the depth chart.
Another reason for optimism is the lack of other options on the depth chart. We’re still a long way from cutdown day, but in this rebuild, it seems like Chism brings more long-term potential than a veteran like Kendrick Bourne.
Rookie receivers almost always struggle in the first few practices, but Chism’s route running was so precise that he was quickly getting open. That could be an especially important trait if the Patriots offensive line struggles and Maye has to quickly get the ball out.
What you should read next
Patriots stock report: Efton Chism and other risers and fallers after spring practices
Who makes the roster won't be shaped much by OTAs and minicamp, but the spring can impact where players stand heading into training camp.
So with Chism, there are two legit concerns. The first is his speed. While he’s great in short areas, you’d still like to have slot receivers with some speed — and Douglas is significantly faster. Julian Edelman ran a 4.52-second 40, which is meaningfully faster than Chism. (Edelman also tested much better than Chism in explosive drills like the broad jump and vertical jump.)
The other area of concern is Chism’s durability. He stayed healthy in college, but the physicality in the NFL is a far cry from what he experienced at the FCS level. One of the ugly truths for undrafted guys is you have to stay healthy in training camp to have a chance, so that’ll factor into Chism’s odds of making the roster, too.
Those are all fair questions and reasons to not just pencil Chism onto the roster. Besides, those spring sessions are tailor-made for a player like him. But at the same time, you couldn’t have asked for much more than he provided this spring.
But it’s not hyperbole to say that no player did more to improve his standing on the depth chart than Efton Chism. To put it another way, when we came up with the idea for this series in which we’d zoom in on 10 important players ahead of training camp, Chism wasn’t even in consideration. Now he’s kicking it off.
Mike Vrabel praised the 23-year-old as “a talented player” who is dedicated and “studied extremely hard.” The head coach noted that it doesn’t take long to figure out which receivers quarterbacks trust — “it’s the ones they target,” he said. That clearly means Drake Maye already trusts Chism, given their work together this spring and the 50 catches Maye estimated Chism made.
So as the hype train rolls on for the 5-foot-10 receiver, let’s look at how Chism got here, what the future might hold and whether this might just be fool’s gold in spring sessions that favor receivers.
History
Chism didn’t start playing football until eighth grade. Before that, he focused on baseball and basketball. But he quickly took to football. He and his family watched Eastern Washington games, which meant he was frequently watching Cooper Kupp as a kid. His level of comfort with the program is part of the reason he chose to attend college there.Chism broke out as a sophomore, notching 735 receiving yards and nine touchdowns in 13 games, while kicking off a streak of 53 straight games with at least one catch, a mark that broke Kupp’s FCS record.
He’s a slick route runner who easily got open against defenders and led all of the FCS in catches last season with 120 in 12 games.
Chism’s chances of getting drafted were dampened when he ran a 4.71-second 40-yard dash, but he posted elite numbers in the short shuttle and three-cone drill, which speak to his shiftiness. After going undrafted, he had a number of suitors and signed with the Patriots on a deal that guaranteed him $234,000, a massive haul for an undrafted player.
View: https://x.com/EricGalko/status/1913308441361211563?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1913308441361211563%7Ctwgr%5Ec5b8113a3d9c86569ad85764b82849e24fb6d24e%7Ctwcon%5Es1_c10&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nytimes.com%2Fathletic%2F6422235%2F2025%2F06%2F16%2Fefton-chism-patriots-53-man-roster%2F
Offseason recap
From the first practice, it was evident Chism was different. Typically, coaches are slow to elevate rookies. But by the time OTAs were halfway complete, Chism was already getting reps with Maye after starting with the third-team offense.He seems like a perfect fit for Josh McDaniels’ scheme, which has always utilized shifty slot receivers. McDaniels’ offense seems to make up for Chism’s lack of top-end speed by having him find soft spots in the coverage and running a bunch of underneath crossing routes.
Now, it’s worth noting that Vrabel wanted cornerbacks to pull up and not go for 50-50 balls during spring practices, but those practices still couldn’t have gone much better for Chism.
X-factor
Even if Chism continues to play well in training camp, he has a long way to go to overtake DeMario Douglas on the depth chart. Douglas is the same kind of player as Chism but has more of a track record (he had 621 yards last season) and a lot more speed (he ran a 4.44-second 40).Given the nature of slot receivers, it’s unlikely both Douglas and Chism would ever be on the field at the same time. So even if Chism looks more likely than not to make the team at this point, he’s still likely to be stuck behind Douglas on the depth chart.
Reasons for optimism
Head coaches typically don’t hand out the kind of praise in the spring that Vrabel did for Chism. Same for quarterbacks. That’s a sign that Chism is more than just a spring darling who will get overwhelmed when the pads come on. If anything, it might be more impressive that Chism was so quickly making an impact in a McDaniels offense that has historically been difficult for rookie receivers to learn.Another reason for optimism is the lack of other options on the depth chart. We’re still a long way from cutdown day, but in this rebuild, it seems like Chism brings more long-term potential than a veteran like Kendrick Bourne.
Rookie receivers almost always struggle in the first few practices, but Chism’s route running was so precise that he was quickly getting open. That could be an especially important trait if the Patriots offensive line struggles and Maye has to quickly get the ball out.
What you should read next
Patriots stock report: Efton Chism and other risers and fallers after spring practices
Who makes the roster won't be shaped much by OTAs and minicamp, but the spring can impact where players stand heading into training camp.
Reasons for concern
As Vrabel stressed several times, OTAs and minicamp are really just a passing clinic. In that environment, shifty slot receivers should stand out.So with Chism, there are two legit concerns. The first is his speed. While he’s great in short areas, you’d still like to have slot receivers with some speed — and Douglas is significantly faster. Julian Edelman ran a 4.52-second 40, which is meaningfully faster than Chism. (Edelman also tested much better than Chism in explosive drills like the broad jump and vertical jump.)
The other area of concern is Chism’s durability. He stayed healthy in college, but the physicality in the NFL is a far cry from what he experienced at the FCS level. One of the ugly truths for undrafted guys is you have to stay healthy in training camp to have a chance, so that’ll factor into Chism’s odds of making the roster, too.
What to watch in camp
In short, can Chism keep this up? If the 53-man roster were based solely on spring practices, Chism would be on the team. But things ramp up in a big way when the pads come on. Can he provide anything as a run blocker? Can he stay healthy? Does his lack of straight-end speed hurt him?Those are all fair questions and reasons to not just pencil Chism onto the roster. Besides, those spring sessions are tailor-made for a player like him. But at the same time, you couldn’t have asked for much more than he provided this spring.
The Patriots’ biggest needs entering the NFL Draft were well known. They needed a left tackle, which they got with No. 4 pick Will Campbell. They also needed a wide receiver, which many around the league assumed they’d take in the second round.
But the Pats threw a bit of a curveball with the 38th pick. Instead of a wideout for Drake Maye, they went with running back TreVeyon Henderson, even after signing veteran Rhamondre Stevenson to an extension less than one year earlier.
Still, the message was clear. The Patriots’ decision-makers felt they needed to add juice to an offense that has been the NFL’s least explosive the last three years (defined by passes of more than 12 yards and rushes of more than 8). So they went with Henderson, a speedy, big-play back out of Ohio State, even though there wasn’t much of a need at the position, even though this year’s draft class was rich in running backs and even though the position has been devalued in recent years.
So, is the move going to work? Was it wise to grab a back so early? And how much can Henderson help jump-start a sluggish offense? Let’s dive in.
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But Henderson moved to running back as a junior and broke school records, going for 2,424 rushing yards on 198 carries (12.2 average) and 45 touchdowns in 15 games, all while still playing in the secondary. That made him a five-star prospect and the top-ranked running back recruit in his class. He didn’t play as a high school senior due to the pandemic and chose Ohio State over Oklahoma.
With the Buckeyes, Henderson set freshman records (1,560 total yards and 19 touchdowns in 13 games) before dealing with a pair of injuries in the ensuing two seasons that kept him out of eight games.
As Ohio State loaded up its roster last season for an eventual national-title run, coaches approached Henderson to see if he’d be OK with them adding a big-time transfer running back (Quinshon Judkins). Henderson approved the move even though it meant fewer carries for him, but the decreased workload kept him fresh (he averaged a career-best 7.1 yards per carry).
https://nytimes.com/athletic/the-beast/2025/player/treveyon_henderson-running_back-wKig3SqMsnIXNPG8
Read the full profile on
From the first practice, it was clear just how different Henderson is from the rest of the New England backs (and, frankly, the offense as a whole). He has blazing speed (4.43-second 40) and big-play ability, traits Stevenson just doesn’t offer (he ran a 4.64-second 40 in 2021).
Henderson also spent some time this spring working as a kick returner.
This season, Henderson’s health shouldn’t be too much of an issue since he’ll split carries with Stevenson. But in the future, he’ll need to prove he can stay healthy.
But Henderson isn’t just a speed back. His hands are legit (he had 77 catches in college), and he showed that off with some impressive grabs during spring practices. Plus, despite his size, Henderson is a tough and nasty pass blocker who can bully blitzing linebackers, which is an important trait behind what could be a shaky offensive line.
What You Should Read Next
So, Henderson’s development as a runner between the tackles will go a long way toward determining his success. This season, he probably won’t have to do a ton of it, particularly if Stevenson gets the majority of the early-down carries. But for this draft pick to be worth it, Henderson needs to improve as a between-the-tackles rusher as he presumably takes on a bigger role in the years to come.
Defenses around the league have done more schematically to take away big passes, including playing with two deep safeties. Offenses like the Patriots’ are now betting that an improved running game can take advantage of those schemes, and that a big-play back can make a defense pay if it plays shell coverages.
Will it work? We’ll see. The New England offensive line is still just OK, which complicates that plan. But if Henderson can find some explosive rushes, that could really open up the play-action game for Maye.
But the Pats threw a bit of a curveball with the 38th pick. Instead of a wideout for Drake Maye, they went with running back TreVeyon Henderson, even after signing veteran Rhamondre Stevenson to an extension less than one year earlier.
Still, the message was clear. The Patriots’ decision-makers felt they needed to add juice to an offense that has been the NFL’s least explosive the last three years (defined by passes of more than 12 yards and rushes of more than 8). So they went with Henderson, a speedy, big-play back out of Ohio State, even though there wasn’t much of a need at the position, even though this year’s draft class was rich in running backs and even though the position has been devalued in recent years.
So, is the move going to work? Was it wise to grab a back so early? And how much can Henderson help jump-start a sluggish offense? Let’s dive in.
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History
Henderson grew up just south of Richmond, Va., and began his high school football career focused on defensive back (notching three interceptions as a sophomore). He was good enough there that he had Division I scholarship offers to play defense.But Henderson moved to running back as a junior and broke school records, going for 2,424 rushing yards on 198 carries (12.2 average) and 45 touchdowns in 15 games, all while still playing in the secondary. That made him a five-star prospect and the top-ranked running back recruit in his class. He didn’t play as a high school senior due to the pandemic and chose Ohio State over Oklahoma.
With the Buckeyes, Henderson set freshman records (1,560 total yards and 19 touchdowns in 13 games) before dealing with a pair of injuries in the ensuing two seasons that kept him out of eight games.
As Ohio State loaded up its roster last season for an eventual national-title run, coaches approached Henderson to see if he’d be OK with them adding a big-time transfer running back (Quinshon Judkins). Henderson approved the move even though it meant fewer carries for him, but the decreased workload kept him fresh (he averaged a career-best 7.1 yards per carry).
https://nytimes.com/athletic/the-beast/2025/player/treveyon_henderson-running_back-wKig3SqMsnIXNPG8
Read the full profile on
Offseason recap
Stevenson missed multiple practices this spring while mourning the death of his father. That opened the door for Henderson to get more snaps with the first-team offense.From the first practice, it was clear just how different Henderson is from the rest of the New England backs (and, frankly, the offense as a whole). He has blazing speed (4.43-second 40) and big-play ability, traits Stevenson just doesn’t offer (he ran a 4.64-second 40 in 2021).
Henderson also spent some time this spring working as a kick returner.
X-factor
As with any running back, Henderson’s health will be central to how successful he is in the NFL. As a sophomore in college, he suffered a broken foot, which eventually required surgery and kept him out for five games. The next season, he missed three more games due to an undisclosed injury. He’s a bit undersized for a running back (5 feet 10, 202 pounds), which could be a factor in his ability to stay healthy.This season, Henderson’s health shouldn’t be too much of an issue since he’ll split carries with Stevenson. But in the future, he’ll need to prove he can stay healthy.
Reasons for optimism
Let’s start with the obvious. Henderson brings energy to the Patriots offense that it hasn’t had in years. He’s a home run threat every time he touches the ball. He can make plays as a receiver or beat a linebacker to the corner and bolt for 40 yards. That’s a dynamic New England just hasn’t had.But Henderson isn’t just a speed back. His hands are legit (he had 77 catches in college), and he showed that off with some impressive grabs during spring practices. Plus, despite his size, Henderson is a tough and nasty pass blocker who can bully blitzing linebackers, which is an important trait behind what could be a shaky offensive line.
What You Should Read Next
Reasons for concern
We’ve gone over the injury history. The other potential reason for concern is that it’s still unknown how good he can be between the tackles and whether he can be a true bell-cow back instead of just a good third-down back. A great third-down back would help the offense, sure. But you generally don’t draft those guys 38th.So, Henderson’s development as a runner between the tackles will go a long way toward determining his success. This season, he probably won’t have to do a ton of it, particularly if Stevenson gets the majority of the early-down carries. But for this draft pick to be worth it, Henderson needs to improve as a between-the-tackles rusher as he presumably takes on a bigger role in the years to come.
What to watch in camp
This isn’t exactly going out on a limb, but Henderson might be the most exciting player for Patriots fans to watch in camp. His pace is unlike anything else the team has on offense, and it’s frankly astounding how quickly he gets to top speed.Defenses around the league have done more schematically to take away big passes, including playing with two deep safeties. Offenses like the Patriots’ are now betting that an improved running game can take advantage of those schemes, and that a big-play back can make a defense pay if it plays shell coverages.
Will it work? We’ll see. The New England offensive line is still just OK, which complicates that plan. But if Henderson can find some explosive rushes, that could really open up the play-action game for Maye.
A couple of weeks into last season, Keion White of the Patriots looked like the franchise’s new stud pass rusher, ready to take over the role created by the departure of Matthew Judon.
He had, at that time, the second-most sacks in the league, already taking down the quarterback four times, trailing only Aidan Hutchinson of the Detroit Lions.
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But White’s falloff was swift and steep. He had only one sack over the final 15 games. His pressure rate plummeted as did, eventually, his playing time. And, it seemed, so did his trust in the coaching staff. White was one of the team’s most outspoken players at the end of last season, openly calling for change. “If changes aren’t made, then what are we doing?” he said at the time.
Now, change has come. Mike Vrabel is in charge. White has a proven pass-rush coach to work with in the form of Mike Smith. His defensive coordinator specializes in D-line play. His head coach came up on the defensive side.
Given all of that, the ante feels upped for White this season. Will he put it all together and show off the promise he’s teased since Bill Belichick made him a second-round pick? Or will he play like he did down the stretch last season, opening the door for him to be the latest player from the previous regime to be jettisoned by Vrabel?
Those questions make White one of the Patriots’ most intriguing players entering training camp.
Through training camp and the preseason, White was consistently making standout plays with a violence in movement that the Patriots lacked on the edge. But his playing time as a rookie was limited behind Judon and Joshua Uche, and he notched just one sack in 2023.
Expectations were higher last season, particularly after Judon was traded. White had a coach in Jerod Mayo who brought a carryover in defensive style. He got more playing time. And early on, he had success: 2 1/2 sacks in the opener, plus 1 1/2 more in Week 2.
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How Patriots pass rusher Keion White became a breakout star: From Domino’s delivery to NFL
With four sacks through two games, White is one of the NFL's breakout stars this season. But his road to this point was a winding one.
But the drop-off in White’s play was drastic.
In the first eight weeks of last season, White ranked 26th in the league in pressure rate (14.3) among players with more than 100 pass rush snaps, just behind Chris Jones and Khalil Mack. In the final nine weeks of the season, he ranked 93rd (9.9).
His playing time fell off, too, and he began to criticise the franchise’s direction. He went from playing more than 80 percent of the defensive snaps in each of the first three games to less than 65 percent in the final three games.
Vrabel brought in Harold Landry and K’Lavon Chaisson, training camp competition for White. But it has seemed to help White. He spent many spring sessions going over pass-rush moves with Landry before the start of practice and praised the veteran for that time in comments that later went viral.
“Now I feel like I have a coach,” White said when asked how helpful Landry has been.
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Even if those comments were made about Landry and not the lack of coaching he got a year ago, they’re strong remarks about the franchise looking ahead to this fall.
That kind of drop-off suggests an attitude change. He clearly can stop the run — he just didn’t get overly involved in that area a year ago.
Now there are no more excuses. It was somewhat understandable to be frustrated by last season. But there’s a new regime in charge. So White needs to show up to camp ready to set the edge, even if that’s not as glamorous as getting after the passer, because it’s unlikely Vrabel will just let that slide.
So the optimistic view is that he was struggling with the coaching he received a year ago and the direction the franchise was headed.
With those issues resolved, White should be headed for the leap we initially saw last season and should become a top-30 edge rusher in the NFL.
So the concern is his lack of consistency. We’ve all seen the highlights of violent hits and great sacks. He can do that. But it’s never consistent enough, and the fear is that simply changing the coach won’t fix it.
The second is his playing time. Landry is probably a starter on one end, and White is probably a starter on the other. But Chaisson was impressive this spring and could eat into White’s playing time if White doesn’t have a good camp.
He had, at that time, the second-most sacks in the league, already taking down the quarterback four times, trailing only Aidan Hutchinson of the Detroit Lions.
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But White’s falloff was swift and steep. He had only one sack over the final 15 games. His pressure rate plummeted as did, eventually, his playing time. And, it seemed, so did his trust in the coaching staff. White was one of the team’s most outspoken players at the end of last season, openly calling for change. “If changes aren’t made, then what are we doing?” he said at the time.
Now, change has come. Mike Vrabel is in charge. White has a proven pass-rush coach to work with in the form of Mike Smith. His defensive coordinator specializes in D-line play. His head coach came up on the defensive side.
Given all of that, the ante feels upped for White this season. Will he put it all together and show off the promise he’s teased since Bill Belichick made him a second-round pick? Or will he play like he did down the stretch last season, opening the door for him to be the latest player from the previous regime to be jettisoned by Vrabel?
Those questions make White one of the Patriots’ most intriguing players entering training camp.
History
White came to the Patriots as Belichick tried to bolster his defense in 2023, landing with New England in the second round, one round after the team landed Christian Gonzalez. He was an older prospect (24 when he was drafted) but quickly made an impact.Through training camp and the preseason, White was consistently making standout plays with a violence in movement that the Patriots lacked on the edge. But his playing time as a rookie was limited behind Judon and Joshua Uche, and he notched just one sack in 2023.
Expectations were higher last season, particularly after Judon was traded. White had a coach in Jerod Mayo who brought a carryover in defensive style. He got more playing time. And early on, he had success: 2 1/2 sacks in the opener, plus 1 1/2 more in Week 2.
What you should read next
How Patriots pass rusher Keion White became a breakout star: From Domino’s delivery to NFL
With four sacks through two games, White is one of the NFL's breakout stars this season. But his road to this point was a winding one.
But the drop-off in White’s play was drastic.
In the first eight weeks of last season, White ranked 26th in the league in pressure rate (14.3) among players with more than 100 pass rush snaps, just behind Chris Jones and Khalil Mack. In the final nine weeks of the season, he ranked 93rd (9.9).
His playing time fell off, too, and he began to criticise the franchise’s direction. He went from playing more than 80 percent of the defensive snaps in each of the first three games to less than 65 percent in the final three games.
Offseason recap
The Patriots made some additions at edge rusher, an indication that White, now 26, isn’t guaranteed to be a starter who gets loads of playing time. The message from Vrabel seems to be that White has to earn it.Vrabel brought in Harold Landry and K’Lavon Chaisson, training camp competition for White. But it has seemed to help White. He spent many spring sessions going over pass-rush moves with Landry before the start of practice and praised the veteran for that time in comments that later went viral.
“Now I feel like I have a coach,” White said when asked how helpful Landry has been.
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Even if those comments were made about Landry and not the lack of coaching he got a year ago, they’re strong remarks about the franchise looking ahead to this fall.
X-factor
How much will White improve against the run? As a rookie, he shined there, ranking 58th among 197 edge rushers in that area, as graded by Pro Football Focus. But last season, he dropped to 147th among 211 edge rushers, per PFF.That kind of drop-off suggests an attitude change. He clearly can stop the run — he just didn’t get overly involved in that area a year ago.
Now there are no more excuses. It was somewhat understandable to be frustrated by last season. But there’s a new regime in charge. So White needs to show up to camp ready to set the edge, even if that’s not as glamorous as getting after the passer, because it’s unlikely Vrabel will just let that slide.
Reasons for optimism
The talent with White is obvious. He kept the company of two of the best pass rushers in the league in the first half of last season (Jones and Mack). He was great against the run as a rookie. He has plenty of speed with long arms and tons of strength.So the optimistic view is that he was struggling with the coaching he received a year ago and the direction the franchise was headed.
With those issues resolved, White should be headed for the leap we initially saw last season and should become a top-30 edge rusher in the NFL.
Reasons for concern
Players as good as White can’t simply get wiped out of 15 games in a row. It doesn’t matter if you’re mad at the coaching staff.So the concern is his lack of consistency. We’ve all seen the highlights of violent hits and great sacks. He can do that. But it’s never consistent enough, and the fear is that simply changing the coach won’t fix it.
What to watch in camp
Two things: The first is White’s level of engagement. That might be a small ask in training camp, but it’s a big part of his story given the events of the last eight months. Is he hustling on every play, chasing down ball carriers even when the rush goes the other way? Is he staying late to get extra work on his pass-rush moves?The second is his playing time. Landry is probably a starter on one end, and White is probably a starter on the other. But Chaisson was impressive this spring and could eat into White’s playing time if White doesn’t have a good camp.
The Patriots’ offseason search for a true No. 1 wide receiver didn’t go very well. They weren’t interested in Tee Higgins. They tried hard to land Chris Godwin in free agency, but he wanted to stay in Tampa. The trade market wasn’t fruitful. The draft class was underwhelming.
So the Pats instead turned to Stefon Diggs in free agency, hopeful the 31-year-old can get healthy and play like he did a couple of years ago.
Then they nabbed a wide receiver in the third round of the draft, a late bloomer who’s a bit undersized but has enough speed and quickness off the line of scrimmage that they hope he’ll be a big-play jolt on the outside.
That’s what they want from Kyle Williams, anyway. But will they get it? The organization’s recent track record with drafted wide receivers — dating back to Bill Belichick — warrants plenty of cynicism.
But can a new regime finally turn things around? Can Williams be a difference-maker in Year 1? And how can he help second-year quarterback Drake Maye?
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But he was talked into changing positions before his senior year, hopeful that it would result in a college scholarship offer. He played wide receiver and defensive back that season and was impressive enough to become a three-star prospect. He chose UNLV and spent three seasons there before transferring to Washington State in 2023.
He blossomed in Pullman. As a fifth-year senior, he caught 70 passes for 1,198 yards and 14 touchdowns in 13 games. His impressive speed (4.4-second 40) helped him become a third-round pick.
https://nytimes.com/athletic/the-beast/2025/player/kyle_williams-wide_receiver-Tx2WxWNrVI0IzsMu
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Given that, it’s no surprise that Williams had some impressive moments in spring practices … along with a few disappointing ones. His best moment was a deep touchdown pass from Drake Maye, exactly the kind of play the Pats envisioned when they picked him. But the next day, Williams was lined up against Christian Gonzalez for another vertical route. This time, he got boxed out by the corner, who came down with an interception on a deep ball.
Those plays sum up what was a bit of a mixed bag this spring for Williams.
Last season, the Patriots had the NFL’s second-lowest percentage of explosive plays (defined as 12-plus-yard gains), ahead of only the Cleveland Browns.
So why target Williams in the draft? He had an astounding 58 percent success rate on throws of 20 yards or more last season, and posted 17.1 yards per reception. A Patriots roster filled with players who can excel underneath needed a deep threat like Williams to keep opposing defenses honest.
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That’s important because of how defenses play the Patriots. Last season, the Patriots faced a higher rate of man coverage (30 percent of passing snaps) and single-high safeties (61 percent of the time) than league average, per Tru Media, because teams knew that the Pats couldn’t throw it deep and didn’t have receivers who could separate against man coverage.
Those are the two areas in which Williams should excel. He’s quick off the line of scrimmage, which gives him a big advantage against man coverage. And the deep ball is his biggest strength.
Plus, McDaniels’ offense can be difficult to learn for rookies, and Williams is already behind Diggs, Mack Hollins and Demario Douglas on the depth chart. Depending on how McDaniels wants to deploy his receiver group, Williams could be the No. 4 or 5 receiver, which isn’t likely to result in many targets.
But his routes need more polish. Too often in college, he was able to get away with his speed and shiftiness off the line. He can lean on those traits in the NFL, too, but to become a more reliable No. 2 or 3 receiver in the NFL, he’ll have to improve his routes and learn to get open in the intermediate area.
So the Pats instead turned to Stefon Diggs in free agency, hopeful the 31-year-old can get healthy and play like he did a couple of years ago.
Then they nabbed a wide receiver in the third round of the draft, a late bloomer who’s a bit undersized but has enough speed and quickness off the line of scrimmage that they hope he’ll be a big-play jolt on the outside.
That’s what they want from Kyle Williams, anyway. But will they get it? The organization’s recent track record with drafted wide receivers — dating back to Bill Belichick — warrants plenty of cynicism.
But can a new regime finally turn things around? Can Williams be a difference-maker in Year 1? And how can he help second-year quarterback Drake Maye?
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History
Williams traveled a winding road to become an NFL wide receiver. For his first three seasons of high school football in Southern California, he was adamant that he was a quarterback. He was a lefty who completed 58 percent of his passes for 2,114 yards, 26 touchdowns and seven interceptions as a junior.But he was talked into changing positions before his senior year, hopeful that it would result in a college scholarship offer. He played wide receiver and defensive back that season and was impressive enough to become a three-star prospect. He chose UNLV and spent three seasons there before transferring to Washington State in 2023.
He blossomed in Pullman. As a fifth-year senior, he caught 70 passes for 1,198 yards and 14 touchdowns in 13 games. His impressive speed (4.4-second 40) helped him become a third-round pick.
https://nytimes.com/athletic/the-beast/2025/player/kyle_williams-wide_receiver-Tx2WxWNrVI0IzsMu
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Offseason recap
Rookie receivers tend to take to Josh McDaniels’ offense a bit slowly. It’s complex and includes choice routes based on the coverage they’re getting, an aspect few have experienced in college.Given that, it’s no surprise that Williams had some impressive moments in spring practices … along with a few disappointing ones. His best moment was a deep touchdown pass from Drake Maye, exactly the kind of play the Pats envisioned when they picked him. But the next day, Williams was lined up against Christian Gonzalez for another vertical route. This time, he got boxed out by the corner, who came down with an interception on a deep ball.
Those plays sum up what was a bit of a mixed bag this spring for Williams.
X-factor
It’s all about the deep ball for Williams. The Patriots hope they can develop him in other areas, too, to make him a well-rounded wide receiver. But right now, the hope is he can bring a vertical element to the passing game that the Pats haven’t had in years.Last season, the Patriots had the NFL’s second-lowest percentage of explosive plays (defined as 12-plus-yard gains), ahead of only the Cleveland Browns.
So why target Williams in the draft? He had an astounding 58 percent success rate on throws of 20 yards or more last season, and posted 17.1 yards per reception. A Patriots roster filled with players who can excel underneath needed a deep threat like Williams to keep opposing defenses honest.
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What we learned from NFL offseason workouts: One key observation for every team
Minicamps and OTAs gave The Athletic's NFL writers plenty to ponder ahead of training camp. What stood out most?
Reasons for optimism
One of the most important things when it comes to roster building is making sure your group of wide receivers brings different traits. In recent years, the Patriots have loaded up on big slot-type guys. Williams brings something different and is a home run threat who can beat man coverage.That’s important because of how defenses play the Patriots. Last season, the Patriots faced a higher rate of man coverage (30 percent of passing snaps) and single-high safeties (61 percent of the time) than league average, per Tru Media, because teams knew that the Pats couldn’t throw it deep and didn’t have receivers who could separate against man coverage.
Those are the two areas in which Williams should excel. He’s quick off the line of scrimmage, which gives him a big advantage against man coverage. And the deep ball is his biggest strength.
Reasons for concern
To put it bluntly, the Patriots have a terrible history of drafting and developing receivers. Yes, this is a new regime, but it’s hard to have much faith that a wide receiver drafted early by the Patriots is going to be good.Plus, McDaniels’ offense can be difficult to learn for rookies, and Williams is already behind Diggs, Mack Hollins and Demario Douglas on the depth chart. Depending on how McDaniels wants to deploy his receiver group, Williams could be the No. 4 or 5 receiver, which isn’t likely to result in many targets.
What to watch in camp
It’ll be interesting to see how the Patriots work with Williams on intermediate routes. We know how good he is off the line of scrimmage, which should help on third-and-short if Williams can quickly get open. And we know how good he is at using his speed to win deep.But his routes need more polish. Too often in college, he was able to get away with his speed and shiftiness off the line. He can lean on those traits in the NFL, too, but to become a more reliable No. 2 or 3 receiver in the NFL, he’ll have to improve his routes and learn to get open in the intermediate area.
A week into training camp last year, Patriots trainers noticed that Christian Barmore’s right calf was larger than his left, prompting a series of tests that revealed a blood clot diagnosis.
Barmore dealt with shortness of breath. The diagnosis taxed him mentally, he said. He didn’t know if or when he’d play football again. He’d just signed a massive four-year, $83 million contract that was supposed to yield stability, and now so much was unclear.
A few months later, he returned to the football field for four games before being shut down amid further complications from the blood clots.
“It was really confusing,” Barmore said this offseason. “Anger and just really mind-blowing because I was putting in a lot of work here at that time. It’s like all that work I put in for nothing.”
Since Barmore was last on the field, a lot has changed for the Patriots. New coach. New structure. New pass-rushing defensive tackle with a giant contract.
But the addition of Milton Williams, which once seemed like it might cast questions about Barmore’s availability, now has the Patriots poised to boast one of the NFL’s best interior pass rushes. That is, if Barmore returns to his high level of play.
It took some development, but he had finally become the dominant pass rusher that enticed Bill Belichick to use a second-round pick on him. Plus, Barmore quietly improved his run-stopping that season, the area that had always held him back from being able to play in any situation. Barmore is never going to be confused for a true run stuffer up the middle, but he did well enough there in 2023 while dominant as a rusher. In the second half of 2023, his pressure rate ranked 11th among all defensive tackles and ninth in quarterback hurries.
Then, the massive contract extension followed. Barmore was still just 24 then, and it was easy to envision an even more dominant 2024.
Then, Barmore was cleared to participate in the team’s voluntary practices in May. In June, Barmore was one of the most dominant players at practice. In many ways, he looked like his 2023 version, continually pushing the pocket against a reshuffled interior O-line.
Still, it was impressive and essential for the Pats that Barmore wasn’t just present at practice, but dominating. It was enough to earn praise from his new coach.
“What I’ve seen is a player that is excited, that is coachable — extremely coachable,” Vrabel said. “He has versatility, he’s rushed inside, he’s lined up outside. He’s worked extremely hard. You’ve seen him chase and play with great effort down the field … I’ve seen a lot of improvement and a lot of engagement from him since the time that we’ve been here.”
Williams probably gets more attention from offensive coordinators to start the season. There’s no flying under the radar for him anymore after his dominant Super Bowl performance.
If that’s the case, Barmore should get plenty of one-on-one rushes against a guard. Teams pay a premium for top-end edge rushers, part of why it’s so hard to land those kinds of players.
So since they weren’t able to acquire that kind of player this offseason, the Pats are shifting their focus to get pressure from the interior. That could make for a big season for Barmore and Williams.
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The NFC North was also in the headlines this spring, as was 49ers QB Brock Purdy, who hit it big as questions swirled about his team.
So, if the diagnosis becomes a thing of the past for Barmore, there’s no reason to think he can’t build on that 2023 breakout. And if that’s the case, the Patriots’ plan up the middle could become the strength of their defense.
Plus, Barmore is still just 25 years old (he turns 26 next month). He should just be entering his prime while now playing next to a really good pass rusher, who could take some pressure off him.
Furthermore, his play against the run will always be worth following. Yes, he upped his performance there in 2023. But that was while playing next to Lawrence Guy and Davon Godchaux, two big run stuffers. It’s easier to look good in that area when the guy next to you is such a help.
But that area of the game is also Williams’ weakness, and it comes at a time when offenses are more willing to run the ball given the spread of defenses playing with two deep safeties to take away big plays in the passing game.
So the fear is that the duo of Williams and Barmore gets bullied in the running game badly enough that they can’t be on the field together unless it’s an obvious passing situation.
But second is the fascinating dynamics that come with the Patriots’ front four. Vrabel has shown a willingness to move Barmore around. He’s going to try him on the outside in passing situations, and line him up in a variety of spots during camp to see what works.
That will be interesting to follow through August as Barmore looks to build on that promising 2023 season.
Barmore dealt with shortness of breath. The diagnosis taxed him mentally, he said. He didn’t know if or when he’d play football again. He’d just signed a massive four-year, $83 million contract that was supposed to yield stability, and now so much was unclear.
A few months later, he returned to the football field for four games before being shut down amid further complications from the blood clots.
“It was really confusing,” Barmore said this offseason. “Anger and just really mind-blowing because I was putting in a lot of work here at that time. It’s like all that work I put in for nothing.”
Since Barmore was last on the field, a lot has changed for the Patriots. New coach. New structure. New pass-rushing defensive tackle with a giant contract.
But the addition of Milton Williams, which once seemed like it might cast questions about Barmore’s availability, now has the Patriots poised to boast one of the NFL’s best interior pass rushes. That is, if Barmore returns to his high level of play.
History
It’s easy to forget just how good Barmore was in 2023 amid all the Patriots drama of the last two years. He had 4.5 sacks in the final five games of that season and 7.5 sacks in the final 11 games.It took some development, but he had finally become the dominant pass rusher that enticed Bill Belichick to use a second-round pick on him. Plus, Barmore quietly improved his run-stopping that season, the area that had always held him back from being able to play in any situation. Barmore is never going to be confused for a true run stuffer up the middle, but he did well enough there in 2023 while dominant as a rusher. In the second half of 2023, his pressure rate ranked 11th among all defensive tackles and ninth in quarterback hurries.
Then, the massive contract extension followed. Barmore was still just 24 then, and it was easy to envision an even more dominant 2024.
Offseason recap
Every update on Barmore’s health this offseason leading up to practices was a positive one. Mike Vrabel in March said Barmore was feeling better and added that they’d developed a “great plan” for the defensive tackle.Then, Barmore was cleared to participate in the team’s voluntary practices in May. In June, Barmore was one of the most dominant players at practice. In many ways, he looked like his 2023 version, continually pushing the pocket against a reshuffled interior O-line.
Still, it was impressive and essential for the Pats that Barmore wasn’t just present at practice, but dominating. It was enough to earn praise from his new coach.
“What I’ve seen is a player that is excited, that is coachable — extremely coachable,” Vrabel said. “He has versatility, he’s rushed inside, he’s lined up outside. He’s worked extremely hard. You’ve seen him chase and play with great effort down the field … I’ve seen a lot of improvement and a lot of engagement from him since the time that we’ve been here.”
X-factor
The addition of Williams has a chance to really help Barmore break out. There are plenty of fair questions as to how the Patriots are going to generate a pass rush on the outside. But with Barmore and Williams lined up together, teams aren’t going to be able to double-team both.Williams probably gets more attention from offensive coordinators to start the season. There’s no flying under the radar for him anymore after his dominant Super Bowl performance.
If that’s the case, Barmore should get plenty of one-on-one rushes against a guard. Teams pay a premium for top-end edge rushers, part of why it’s so hard to land those kinds of players.
So since they weren’t able to acquire that kind of player this offseason, the Pats are shifting their focus to get pressure from the interior. That could make for a big season for Barmore and Williams.
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The NFC North was also in the headlines this spring, as was 49ers QB Brock Purdy, who hit it big as questions swirled about his team.
Reasons for optimism
The Patriots don’t have to look far for an NFL player who had success after a blood clots diagnosis. David Andrews missed the entirety of the 2019 season due to blood clots, and returned to play five more seasons.So, if the diagnosis becomes a thing of the past for Barmore, there’s no reason to think he can’t build on that 2023 breakout. And if that’s the case, the Patriots’ plan up the middle could become the strength of their defense.
Plus, Barmore is still just 25 years old (he turns 26 next month). He should just be entering his prime while now playing next to a really good pass rusher, who could take some pressure off him.
Reasons for concern
Barmore missed 13 games last season. That’s a lot of time away from the game, which could obviously impact his development.Furthermore, his play against the run will always be worth following. Yes, he upped his performance there in 2023. But that was while playing next to Lawrence Guy and Davon Godchaux, two big run stuffers. It’s easier to look good in that area when the guy next to you is such a help.
But that area of the game is also Williams’ weakness, and it comes at a time when offenses are more willing to run the ball given the spread of defenses playing with two deep safeties to take away big plays in the passing game.
So the fear is that the duo of Williams and Barmore gets bullied in the running game badly enough that they can’t be on the field together unless it’s an obvious passing situation.
What to watch in camp
The first is the obvious one, which is just Barmore’s health. It would be good to see him out there for the full camp.But second is the fascinating dynamics that come with the Patriots’ front four. Vrabel has shown a willingness to move Barmore around. He’s going to try him on the outside in passing situations, and line him up in a variety of spots during camp to see what works.
That will be interesting to follow through August as Barmore looks to build on that promising 2023 season.
The Patriots’ free agent spending spree centered on improving the defense. And no player was more significant to that mission than Milton Williams.
The Pats signed Williams to the largest contract in franchise history, a four-year, $104 million deal that included a whopping $63 million guaranteed.
Contracts of that size tend to send a message of what teams are looking for, and in Mike Vrabel’s first year as head coach, the message seems to be about building the defense from the inside out.
So, as Williams nears his first training camp with his new team, let’s look at his path to this point and what’s to come for the defensive tackle.
His rookie season was just OK, and he was mostly used as a rotational defender for a team with a great D-line. In his second NFL season (2022), the Eagles decreased his playing time (he dropped to 36 percent of defensive snaps), but his performance jumped and he recorded four sacks.
It wasn’t until last season that Williams really broke out. With a ton of talent around him on the Eagles’ depth chart, Williams was saved for mostly just a pass-rushing role. And he dominated in that spot. He notched five sacks and was graded as Pro Football Focus’ second-best interior pass rusher out of 219 qualifying defensive tackles.
His Super Bowl performance was especially impressive. On just 25 snaps, Williams recorded two sacks and four pressures, constantly wreaking havoc against the Chiefs’ struggling O-line.
After such moves, it’s not a shock for players to skip voluntary practices. But Williams was present for OTAs — and even got called out by the head coach. During one timed sprint, Williams was on track to finish well before the time needed for his position, so he started to coast. Vrabel called him out, and Williams took the message well.
“Every rep since then, I’m trying to make sure I’m the first one back,” Williams said. “I feel like it’s going to help me, just push me to where I want to be.”
That’s not to say Williams will be a victim of that complacency, but that it’s a possibility as he enters his first season with the Pats and is just worth monitoring. Williams’ whole world has changed this offseason. He’s a Super Bowl champ. And he’s now making 20 times as much money per year as he was on his rookie deal.
It’s no small thing to make a player the highest-paid in franchise history, and the Patriots are clearly comfortable with Williams in that role, confident he won’t just coast after getting the big deal.
Williams is about to get the kind of role he’s long wanted but was always blocked from in Philadelphia, where he was a reserve designated just for obvious passing downs. In New England, the plan is for him to anchor a defense that should be pretty good.
Together with Christian Barmore, he could form one of the best interior pass rushes in the NFL. Christian Gonzalez and an impressive group in the secondary should buy plenty of time for Williams and Barmore to get to work.
Milton Williams’ performance in Super Bowl LIX could be a glimpse of what he has to offer the New England Patriots. (Jamie Squire / Getty Images)
Furthermore, if he is on the field more, he’s going to have to improve his play against the run. While he was one of the best defensive tackles against the pass a year ago, Williams was graded as the 167th of 219 defensive tackles against the run, per Pro Football Focus.
But the increase Williams is about to get in playing time is drastic. So in camp, it’ll be worth watching how often Williams is tapping his helmet to ask for a breather, given the massive workload about to be put on his plate.
Also, it’ll be worth following just how dominant he is. The Patriots’ left guard and center spots aren’t settled. Those should be matchups Williams wins with ease.
The Pats signed Williams to the largest contract in franchise history, a four-year, $104 million deal that included a whopping $63 million guaranteed.
Contracts of that size tend to send a message of what teams are looking for, and in Mike Vrabel’s first year as head coach, the message seems to be about building the defense from the inside out.
So, as Williams nears his first training camp with his new team, let’s look at his path to this point and what’s to come for the defensive tackle.
History
Williams was a third-round pick in 2021 to the Eagles (one part of yet another impressive draft class from them) out of Louisiana Tech. He tested incredibly well in the pre-draft process with an incredible 38.5-inch vertical leap and 4.67-second 40-yard dash at 284 pounds.His rookie season was just OK, and he was mostly used as a rotational defender for a team with a great D-line. In his second NFL season (2022), the Eagles decreased his playing time (he dropped to 36 percent of defensive snaps), but his performance jumped and he recorded four sacks.
It wasn’t until last season that Williams really broke out. With a ton of talent around him on the Eagles’ depth chart, Williams was saved for mostly just a pass-rushing role. And he dominated in that spot. He notched five sacks and was graded as Pro Football Focus’ second-best interior pass rusher out of 219 qualifying defensive tackles.
His Super Bowl performance was especially impressive. On just 25 snaps, Williams recorded two sacks and four pressures, constantly wreaking havoc against the Chiefs’ struggling O-line.
Offseason recap
Just before Williams was set to agree to a deal with the Carolina Panthers, the Patriots swooped in with a bigger offer that landed Williams on the franchise’s first nine-figure deal.After such moves, it’s not a shock for players to skip voluntary practices. But Williams was present for OTAs — and even got called out by the head coach. During one timed sprint, Williams was on track to finish well before the time needed for his position, so he started to coast. Vrabel called him out, and Williams took the message well.
“Every rep since then, I’m trying to make sure I’m the first one back,” Williams said. “I feel like it’s going to help me, just push me to where I want to be.”
X-factor
This isn’t always easy to discuss, but money can change things. Williams has stability and guaranteed money he’s never had before. He’s also got a Super Bowl ring. It’s not a stretch to say that all of that can lead to a decrease in motivation.That’s not to say Williams will be a victim of that complacency, but that it’s a possibility as he enters his first season with the Pats and is just worth monitoring. Williams’ whole world has changed this offseason. He’s a Super Bowl champ. And he’s now making 20 times as much money per year as he was on his rookie deal.
It’s no small thing to make a player the highest-paid in franchise history, and the Patriots are clearly comfortable with Williams in that role, confident he won’t just coast after getting the big deal.
Reasons for optimism
Williams has the potential to be the splashy, big-play defensive player the Patriots lacked a year ago. He’s just now entering his prime in his age-26 season and showed on the biggest stage a year ago that he can come through in the clutch.Williams is about to get the kind of role he’s long wanted but was always blocked from in Philadelphia, where he was a reserve designated just for obvious passing downs. In New England, the plan is for him to anchor a defense that should be pretty good.
Together with Christian Barmore, he could form one of the best interior pass rushes in the NFL. Christian Gonzalez and an impressive group in the secondary should buy plenty of time for Williams and Barmore to get to work.
Milton Williams’ performance in Super Bowl LIX could be a glimpse of what he has to offer the New England Patriots. (Jamie Squire / Getty Images)
Reasons for concern
This has been an oft-cited stat, but it’s worth repeating — Williams has never played more than 50 percent of defensive snaps in a season. He’s about to go from a role player to a franchise’s highest-paid, which is a jarring change. It’s not a given that Williams can continue that high level of play if he’s on the field significantly more.Furthermore, if he is on the field more, he’s going to have to improve his play against the run. While he was one of the best defensive tackles against the pass a year ago, Williams was graded as the 167th of 219 defensive tackles against the run, per Pro Football Focus.
What to watch in camp
During the long, hot days of training camp, there’s no hiding what condition you’re in. Williams has said he doesn’t feel the need to alter his offseason training plan, as it has left him in good shape in the past.But the increase Williams is about to get in playing time is drastic. So in camp, it’ll be worth watching how often Williams is tapping his helmet to ask for a breather, given the massive workload about to be put on his plate.
Also, it’ll be worth following just how dominant he is. The Patriots’ left guard and center spots aren’t settled. Those should be matchups Williams wins with ease.
Even if it seemed obvious all offseason that the Patriots were going to draft Will Campbell with the No. 4 pick, the team’s brass took a trip to Louisiana a week before they were on the clock for a final meeting with the left tackle. It was a last check-in to make sure everyone was on the same page with picking the guy they envision protecting Drake Maye’s blindside for years to come.
Campbell passed the test, even if it included knocking down his future coach with a powerful block.
Ever since, Campbell has been penciled in as the team’s starting left tackle, a rare job for a rookie but one that spotlights how highly the Pats think of the player they drafted at No. 4. Still, it also spotlights why Campbell will be one of the most important players to the Patriots in 2025, even before he has played a down in the NFL. For that reason, he’s one of the most intriguing Pats players entering camp.
He started playing football in kindergarten and was a four-year starter in high school, becoming one of the top-ranked recruits in the nation and the fourth-ranked offensive tackle. He committed to LSU over Oklahoma and several other schools.
In Baton Rouge, Campbell quickly became a three-year starter, all at left tackle. He was a freshman All-American, All-SEC as a sophomore, then an All-American as a junior. He entered the NFL Draft after that and was the second-youngest (21) tackle taken in the first three rounds (only Armand Membou was younger).
The offensive line had some rough moments in the spring, including several false start penalties and some plays where they were straight-up beat. That’s to be expected from a group with four new starters from a year ago on an offense learning a new scheme, and it’s hard to put much stock into spring practices without full pads.
In short, Campbell’s offseason was right in line with what you’d expect from a rookie: some really good moments and flashes of potential, and a few rough spots getting acclimated to the NFL.
Marrone should be a nice benefit for Campbell as he navigates the difficult world of playing the most important spot on the offensive line. Marrone is viewed as one of the best offensive line coaches in the NFL. He also brings experience to Vrabel’s staff, having served as an NFL offensive line coach for nine years and an NFL head coach for six years – and it doesn’t need repeating that experience was one of the biggest issues with last year’s coaching staff.
View: https://x.com/MathBomb/status/1896263274125308330?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1896263274125308330%7Ctwgr%5Ea8f188fe9c0e496d4e975de6ebb9c8b09a82864c%7Ctwcon%5Es1_c10&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nytimes.com%2Fathletic%2F6453837%2F2025%2F07%2F07%2Fwill-campbell-patriots-rookie-season%2F
Campbell comes with years of experience in the SEC, where he dominated against plenty of future NFLers. His testing numbers project him as one of the most athletic offensive tackles in the NFL and should help make up for a lack of length.
It’s also worth noting that it’s unclear who will play next to Campbell at left guard, one of two uncertain spots on the offensive line. It would go a long way for a rookie left tackle if the guy next to him plays well.
Plus, while we certainly don’t need to delve all the way into it here considering the ink spilled and talk spent on it in the pre-draft process, Campbell’s relatively short arm size further emphasizes the importance of him using good footwork so that speedy edge rushers don’t bolt by him with Campbell unable to reach them.
It will be worth watching how Campbell handles the different types of pass rushes and if there’s one (perhaps the speed rushes?) that Campbell struggles with more than the rest.
Because, while camp is typically a time for earning a lineup or roster spot, it seems pretty settled already that Campbell will be the Patriots’ starting left tackle.
Campbell passed the test, even if it included knocking down his future coach with a powerful block.
Ever since, Campbell has been penciled in as the team’s starting left tackle, a rare job for a rookie but one that spotlights how highly the Pats think of the player they drafted at No. 4. Still, it also spotlights why Campbell will be one of the most important players to the Patriots in 2025, even before he has played a down in the NFL. For that reason, he’s one of the most intriguing Pats players entering camp.
History
Campbell is the son of Monroe, La., natives. His dad is a farmer, and his mom works at a local sporting goods store that has been in the family for four generations.He started playing football in kindergarten and was a four-year starter in high school, becoming one of the top-ranked recruits in the nation and the fourth-ranked offensive tackle. He committed to LSU over Oklahoma and several other schools.
In Baton Rouge, Campbell quickly became a three-year starter, all at left tackle. He was a freshman All-American, All-SEC as a sophomore, then an All-American as a junior. He entered the NFL Draft after that and was the second-youngest (21) tackle taken in the first three rounds (only Armand Membou was younger).
Offseason recap
In what might be a little rare for a rookie, Campbell has been the team’s starting left tackle from Day 1.The offensive line had some rough moments in the spring, including several false start penalties and some plays where they were straight-up beat. That’s to be expected from a group with four new starters from a year ago on an offense learning a new scheme, and it’s hard to put much stock into spring practices without full pads.
In short, Campbell’s offseason was right in line with what you’d expect from a rookie: some really good moments and flashes of potential, and a few rough spots getting acclimated to the NFL.
X-factor
One probably under-discussed aspect of Campbell’s rookie season is the addition of Doug Marrone as offensive line coach. In the last three years, the Pats have been left with first-time coaches at the position, a hindrance considering it seems the O-line coach might be the most important position coach in the NFL.Marrone should be a nice benefit for Campbell as he navigates the difficult world of playing the most important spot on the offensive line. Marrone is viewed as one of the best offensive line coaches in the NFL. He also brings experience to Vrabel’s staff, having served as an NFL offensive line coach for nine years and an NFL head coach for six years – and it doesn’t need repeating that experience was one of the biggest issues with last year’s coaching staff.
Reasons for optimism
While the Pats were a little unlucky to land the No. 4 pick in a draft with three players clearly in a tier to themselves, they were fortunate that one tackle became the consensus top prospect at their biggest position of need.View: https://x.com/MathBomb/status/1896263274125308330?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1896263274125308330%7Ctwgr%5Ea8f188fe9c0e496d4e975de6ebb9c8b09a82864c%7Ctwcon%5Es1_c10&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nytimes.com%2Fathletic%2F6453837%2F2025%2F07%2F07%2Fwill-campbell-patriots-rookie-season%2F
Campbell comes with years of experience in the SEC, where he dominated against plenty of future NFLers. His testing numbers project him as one of the most athletic offensive tackles in the NFL and should help make up for a lack of length.
Reasons for concern
Campbell is a rookie left tackle. Unlike wide receiver, it’s not a position where many guys show up and dominate from Day 1. For as talented as Campbell is and for as decorated as he is entering the NFL, he faces an uphill climb to be an above-average (or even average) starter this season.It’s also worth noting that it’s unclear who will play next to Campbell at left guard, one of two uncertain spots on the offensive line. It would go a long way for a rookie left tackle if the guy next to him plays well.
Plus, while we certainly don’t need to delve all the way into it here considering the ink spilled and talk spent on it in the pre-draft process, Campbell’s relatively short arm size further emphasizes the importance of him using good footwork so that speedy edge rushers don’t bolt by him with Campbell unable to reach them.
What to watch in camp
One benefit for Campbell in camp is that he’ll go against a variety of pass rush styles. Keion White brings power and long arms for strong bull rushes. Harold Landry brings speed to the edge. K’Lavon Chaisson brings bendiness and a quick first step.It will be worth watching how Campbell handles the different types of pass rushes and if there’s one (perhaps the speed rushes?) that Campbell struggles with more than the rest.
Because, while camp is typically a time for earning a lineup or roster spot, it seems pretty settled already that Campbell will be the Patriots’ starting left tackle.
They’re probably all the same guy.
captain stone
Well-known member
The Patriots’ free agent spending spree centered on improving the defense. And no player was more significant to that mission than Milton Williams.
The Pats signed Williams to the largest contract in franchise history, a four-year, $104 million deal that included a whopping $63 million guaranteed.
Contracts of that size tend to send a message of what teams are looking for, and in Mike Vrabel’s first year as head coach, the message seems to be about building the defense from the inside out.
So, as Williams nears his first training camp with his new team, let’s look at his path to this point and what’s to come for the defensive tackle.
History
Williams was a third-round pick in 2021 to the Eagles (one part of yet another impressive draft class from them) out of Louisiana Tech. He tested incredibly well in the pre-draft process with an incredible 38.5-inch vertical leap and 4.67-second 40-yard dash at 284 pounds.
His rookie season was just OK, and he was mostly used as a rotational defender for a team with a great D-line. In his second NFL season (2022), the Eagles decreased his playing time (he dropped to 36 percent of defensive snaps), but his performance jumped and he recorded four sacks.
It wasn’t until last season that Williams really broke out. With a ton of talent around him on the Eagles’ depth chart, Williams was saved for mostly just a pass-rushing role. And he dominated in that spot. He notched five sacks and was graded as Pro Football Focus’ second-best interior pass rusher out of 219 qualifying defensive tackles.
His Super Bowl performance was especially impressive. On just 25 snaps, Williams recorded two sacks and four pressures, constantly wreaking havoc against the Chiefs’ struggling O-line.
Offseason recap
Just before Williams was set to agree to a deal with the Carolina Panthers, the Patriots swooped in with a bigger offer that landed Williams on the franchise’s first nine-figure deal.
After such moves, it’s not a shock for players to skip voluntary practices. But Williams was present for OTAs — and even got called out by the head coach. During one timed sprint, Williams was on track to finish well before the time needed for his position, so he started to coast. Vrabel called him out, and Williams took the message well.
“Every rep since then, I’m trying to make sure I’m the first one back,” Williams said. “I feel like it’s going to help me, just push me to where I want to be.”
X-factor
This isn’t always easy to discuss, but money can change things. Williams has stability and guaranteed money he’s never had before. He’s also got a Super Bowl ring. It’s not a stretch to say that all of that can lead to a decrease in motivation.
That’s not to say Williams will be a victim of that complacency, but that it’s a possibility as he enters his first season with the Pats and is just worth monitoring. Williams’ whole world has changed this offseason. He’s a Super Bowl champ. And he’s now making 20 times as much money per year as he was on his rookie deal.
It’s no small thing to make a player the highest-paid in franchise history, and the Patriots are clearly comfortable with Williams in that role, confident he won’t just coast after getting the big deal.
Reasons for optimism
Williams has the potential to be the splashy, big-play defensive player the Patriots lacked a year ago. He’s just now entering his prime in his age-26 season and showed on the biggest stage a year ago that he can come through in the clutch.
Williams is about to get the kind of role he’s long wanted but was always blocked from in Philadelphia, where he was a reserve designated just for obvious passing downs. In New England, the plan is for him to anchor a defense that should be pretty good.
Together with Christian Barmore, he could form one of the best interior pass rushes in the NFL. Christian Gonzalez and an impressive group in the secondary should buy plenty of time for Williams and Barmore to get to work.
Milton Williams’ performance in Super Bowl LIX could be a glimpse of what he has to offer the New England Patriots. (Jamie Squire / Getty Images)
Reasons for concern
This has been an oft-cited stat, but it’s worth repeating — Williams has never played more than 50 percent of defensive snaps in a season. He’s about to go from a role player to a franchise’s highest-paid, which is a jarring change. It’s not a given that Williams can continue that high level of play if he’s on the field significantly more.
Furthermore, if he is on the field more, he’s going to have to improve his play against the run. While he was one of the best defensive tackles against the pass a year ago, Williams was graded as the 167th of 219 defensive tackles against the run, per Pro Football Focus.
What to watch in camp
During the long, hot days of training camp, there’s no hiding what condition you’re in. Williams has said he doesn’t feel the need to alter his offseason training plan, as it has left him in good shape in the past.
But the increase Williams is about to get in playing time is drastic. So in camp, it’ll be worth watching how often Williams is tapping his helmet to ask for a breather, given the massive workload about to be put on his plate.
Also, it’ll be worth following just how dominant he is. The Patriots’ left guard and center spots aren’t settled. Those should be matchups Williams wins with ease.
WORST signing of the offseason.
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