Training Camp Stock Watch: Patriots’ O-Line Struggles Against Eagles
It was a tough day for the Patriots offense during their joint practice with the Eagles, with the O-line struggling to contain the Eagles’ defensive line.
The Patriots allowed 15 sacks and committed seven penalties on 70 plays, with Jacoby Brissett and Drake Maye behind center. The offense averaged one penalty for every 10 reps, and it was a day to forget for the Patriots’ O-line.
Hunter Henry’s absence due to injury meant more work for Austin Hooper, but he elevated and dropped two passes, including one that was intercepted. Maye fumbled a snap, and Brissett stumbled and fell after taking a snap, causing the top unit to re-huddle.
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Starting Guards
Mike Onwenu and Sidy Sow had a tough time handling the Eagles’ defensive line. Sow was beaten by Jalen Carter for a sack early in practice and allowed a pressure that led to a Brissett throwaway. Onwenu, meanwhile, stoned Carter in a 1-on-1 rep but struggled in 11-on-11 work, getting blown back by Carter and committing a false start penalty.
Calvin Anderson, Offensive Tackle
Anderson had a tough day, struggling with Nolan Smith in 1-on-1 work and allowing a couple of sacks in full-team periods. He was also called for holding on Maye’s first dropback of the day.
Austin Hooper, Tight End
Hooper’s day was marred by two dropped passes, including a nice back-shoulder throw from Brissett that popped out of his hands and was intercepted. He also had a drop on a short throw during the two-minute drill on first down with the Patriots deep in Eagles territory.
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Jabrill Peppers, Safety
Peppers was one of the Patriots’ most intense defenders on the day, consistently displaying an edge that was lauded by Eagles offensive tackle Lane Johnson after practice. “I think they’re stout, really good players. Jabrill Peppers came up from safety and smacked a few guys,” Johnson said.
Jalen Reagor, Wide Receiver
Reagor had a bright spot in an otherwise tough day for the Patriots offense. He caught a deep pass from Brissett during the two-minute period, getting the Patriots into scoring position. He also looks like the team’s best option as a returner to this point in camp.
Raekwon McMillan, Linebacker
McMillan made a standout play during the kickoff period, blasting an Eagles blocker backward and causing a fumble that was scooped up by JaMycal Hasty and would’ve been returned for a touchdown. Impressive work from the Patriots linebacker, who has dealt with injury each of the last three seasons but is making a push for a roster spot.