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As soon as the Patriots traded fourth-year running back Sony Michel to the Rams earlier this week, it felt safe to assume the coaching staff really liked what it saw in rookie Rhamondre Stevenson.
Those of us on the outside will also get one last dose of game action to make our own assessments. With that in mind, here's what to watch for on Sunday at 6 p.m.
It appears the Patriots have avoided losing another cornerback to injury.
This interception will certainly present a learning opportunity for the rookie QB.
Mac Jones has been solid on the field -- in practice and in preseason games -- but his work behind the scenes may be doing even more to win over his teammates and coaches.
"I was surprised," Michel said. "I would assume that most people when they're traded, they're surprised by it."
The NFL is not messing around with violations of the COVID-19 protocols this season.
New England is reportedly close to acquiring cornerback Shaun Wade from the Baltimore Ravens.
Mac Jones wasn't happy with his performance on Thursday, but he had no issue taking second-team reps behind Cam Newton.
Cam Newton took the first snaps at QB for the Patriots, ahead of Mac Jones, in Newton's return to the practice field.
Bill Belichick was pressed to add further details to the circumstances that led to Cam Newton missing three days of practice.
It's more probable than not that Bill Belichick has made up his mind on who will be starting at quarterback for the Patriots in Week 1. But that doesn't mean he is going to enlighten everyone else on that decision.
Get ready to crank New England's quarterback battle up to 11 on Thursday. It figures to be one of the most fascinating days in Foxboro this summer.
The big question this week was whether Mac Jones would take advantage of Cam Newton's absence. On Wednesday, with the Giants in town for a joint practice session, Jones answered that question with an undeniable yes.
"I've had to push through different things and even the early part of training camp, just getting my legs under me and getting my football legs."
