NFL
By Steve Atkinson
The Patriots’ preseason kicks off Thursday against the Colts. They’ll have two joint practices this week, then play the game Thursday night. It’s been a very interesting off-season for the Patriots, with the Vrabel-Russini situation, Christian Gonzalez’s contract situation, and the signing of AJ Brown, which Russini first reported. The focus during camp is mainly on Christian Gonzalez’s contract situation and AJ Brown, especially when Gonzalez and Brown get into it during team drills. So far, it’s been quiet regarding whether a resolution will be reached on Gonzalez’s contract before the season begins.
I’ll start with the less exciting stuff—like how much Drake Maye we might see Thursday. Maybe a couple of series or a quarter. Not much for AJ Brown either. I think we’ll see plenty of Kayshon Boutte, who they’ve been trying to trade because the receiver room is so crowded. I also expect a lot of Kyle Williams, whose name hasn’t come up much in camp. But Boutte has had a good camp so far.
Christian Gonzalez on scuffles with AJ Brown
How much will Patriots starters play on Thursday?
How much will Christian Gonzalez play? Will he sign by then? Probably just a few series, and probably not, because he wants to be the highest paid, and nothing seems to be enough for him. He doesn’t seem to care about the team; he just wants to be the highest-paid cornerback in the league because he was outstanding in the Super Bowl.
Now for juicy stuff : Mike Tomlin, now with NBC, said the other day,
The Vrabel Russini situation will not grow legs if the Patriots win
This suggests that, as I’ve been saying, winning cures everything. It benefits ESPN and the league if the Patriots do well. It’s not just Vrabel—ESPN has known this for years, and she’s not the only one. The Patriots are expected to win at least 10 or 11 games this season; the league will make sure of that.
Don’t get me wrong, they have a solid team. AJ Brown is a huge upgrade, but Drake Maye will start to get the calls in favor of the Patriots—like roughing the passer or PI calls. It’s going to happen, just watch.
The joint practices with the Eagles are going to be more interesting than this week with the Colts. Im sure Dianna Russini would want to be there for those. I’m sure nobody with the Patriots media will ask Vrabel about Mike Tomlin’s comments because they were told not to talk about it and just say it’s personal in regards to the Vrabel Russini situation. Just like any other off field matter correct? Just keep talking about third string guys that will be selling insurance next month. Like a Kindle Vildor a backup cornerback for the Patriots nobody’s ever heard of.
Looking forward to Thursday night to see how much Kayshon Boutte plays. Sounds like he wants out.
