Patriots training camp, Day 8: What we're watching for Thursday

Boston Globe

31-07-2025

Thursday's training camp schedule
Thursday's practice is open to fans, with access beginning at 9:15 a.m. If you'll be one of the many in attendance at Gillette, here are some tips:
▪ Pick a low vantage point for individual drills, a high one for team drills.
▪ Memorize the roster and jersey numbers cold.
▪ Take note of the pairings and combinations.
▪ Grade the one-on-one battles, and be descriptive.
▪ Take note of the game situations.
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▪ Listen to what the coaches are telling the players.
Practice begins at 10 a.m. Head coach Mike Vrabel is not speaking to the media, but players will after practice.
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What to know for Thursday
▪ Bradyn Swinson appreciates his rookie responsibilities that have kept him busy in the grocery store.
'I got big boys in my room, like Keion [White] and [K'Lavon Chaisson], so they always want snacks,' said Swinson, who has been tasked with keeping the snack table stocked.
'But they're eating 'old-head snacks' like Nilla Wafers and stuff. Like, what are we doing?
'I got some Nilla Wafers. I got some Gushers — those are really for me. Don't tell them I said that,' he added with a small smile. 'I got some fruit snacks. They got sunflower seeds. Let me see what else … I got some Chex Mix, too.
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'And then Harold [Landry] … Harold runs through Essentia water like he's breathing oxygen. I don't understand it. I probably refilled him about six or seven times. But you know? I'm enjoying doing it. It's a blessing to be here. So I'll do whatever they tell me to do.'
▪ Center Garrett Bradbury didn't practice Wednesday
With Bradbury out, the Patriots turned to Ben Brown as the starting center and Cole Strange as the backup. Rookie Jared Wilson, who had been taking snaps at center and left guard, settled in as the starting left guard.
▪ Cornerback Carlton Davis again did not practice, though Vrabel indicated his repeated absences could be part of load management.
'Just making sure that he's ready to go,' Vrabel said. 'It's a long season, veteran player.'
Linebacker Jahlani Tavai missed his third straight day, while rookie defensive tackle Joshua Farmer missed his second. Wide receiver Mack Holins and tackle Vederian Lowe remained sidelined on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list. Linebacker Harold Landry, too, did not practice but had a veteran's rest day, according to Vrabel.
▪ Stefon Diggs had the highlight of the day Wednesday. The 31-year-old made an impressive connection with quarterback Drake Maye over the middle. Diggs caught the pass in stride and showed nice acceleration, posting some good yards after the catch. In 11-on-11 work, Diggs had 13 snaps and finished with three catches on three targets.
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Katie McInerney can be reached at