Preseason Updates: New England Patriots

The Footballguys staff gives you all the preseason tidbits from the Patriots.

Footballguys Staff's Preseason Updates: New England Patriots Footballguys Staff Published 08/25/2025

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One of the best and most comprehensive features we offer every year is our Footballguys Preseason Updates. Every week this month, Bob Henry, Jason Wood, Clayton Gray, and their team of Footballguys Staffers cover every player that matters from every NFL team. It's 32-plus pages of some of the most comprehensive coverage you'll find. It's probably worth the Footballguys Premium Subscription by itself.

Updates from Week 4

Preseason Updates: Quarterbacks

Virtually every key Patriot sat out the preseason finale, a list that starts with franchise QB Drake Maye. There's logic in that decision, as Maye was sacked on 9.1% of his drop-backs as a rookie. Boston Herald's Andrew Callahan points out that Maye will likely break the preseason with a shaky line featuring two rookies on his blind side. "For Maye to stay upright, the Patriots must major in movement throws, misdirection, a quick passing game, and run-first mentality," Callahan notes. The fantasy world must also note that Maye has stated a desire to carry the ball less in his second NFL stint. Still, there's ample reason for optimism in Maye's Year 2 development as a passer. Much has reportedly changed in the way he works with coordinator Alex Van Pelt, including more communication – and more leeway given to Maye to find big play opportunities pre-snap. Clear backup Joshua Dobbs, locked in ahead of Ben Wooldridge, also sat out the finale.

Preseason Updates: Running Backs

It's safe to say the Patriots have seen enough of TreVeyon Henderson. The explosive rookie was bubble-wrapped for the finale after turning seven touches into 50 yards and a touchdown – with a 100-yard kick-return touchdown – over the first two. He's locked into a sizeable two-way role in the offense, and the Jahmyr Gibbs comparisons just won't stop. He's certainly taken the thunder from Rhamondre Stevenson, who looked plodding in 2024, but should retain early-down and goal-line work. Stevenson lost the last week of the preseason to injury, but coach Mike Vrabel doesn't seem concerned as the season approaches. It appears Antonio Gibson, who also sat out the Giants game, has likely made the roster, but as a distant No. 3 option.

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