Patriots Training Camp: Stock Watch – Defense Shines in Physical Practice

The Patriots have completed six practices in hot and humid conditions, with five of them being full-pad sessions. The intensity has been high, and the players are being pushed to their limits. In this installment of the Stock Watch, we’ll take a look at who’s rising to the challenge and who’s struggling to keep up.

Stock Up

Jerod Mayo, Head Coach

Mayo has set a tone for his first training camp, and it’s one of physicality and accountability. The team has responded well, with the offense showing improvement and the defense dominating in practice. Mayo’s ability to navigate the Matthew Judon contract situation and the Christian Barmore medical issue has been impressive.

Kayshon Boutte, Wide Receiver

Boutte has consistently impressed with his precise routes and sure hands. He’s been a standout in practice, and his body control is among the best on the team. While others may have more speed or size, Boutte’s reliability makes him a valuable asset.

Run Defense

The Patriots’ run defense has been stifling, with the defensive line and linebackers working in tandem to shut down opposing backs. While the offensive line is still a work in progress, the defense’s ability to stuff runs has been a bright spot in camp.

Stock Up

Davon Godchaux, Defensive Tackle

Godchaux has been a force in the middle, consistently stuffing runs and pushing back against the offensive line. His power and technique have allowed him to dominate in one-on-one reps and team drills.

Anfernee Jennings, Linebacker

Jennings has been a thorn in the side of tight ends, using his strength and length to bully them in one-on-one reps. He’s also shown the ability to stuff runs and defend against the pass.

Ja’Whaun Bentley, Linebacker

Bentley has been a stout run defender, consistently making plays in the backfield. He’s also shown the ability to tip passes and make plays on the ball.

Stock Down

Christian Gonzalez, Cornerback

Gonzalez, the team’s top cornerback, was beaten for a touchdown in the red zone by Tyquan Thornton. While it’s not a crisis, it’s a reminder that even the best players need to earn their role every day.

Dell Pettus, Safety

Pettus, an undrafted rookie, had a strong practice but made a questionable decision when he jumped on the back of a secured Hunter Henry, driving him to the ground. It was a unnecessary play that could have led to injury.

Stock Down

Keion White, Defensive End

White, a second-year pass-rusher, was defeated twice in one-on-one reps by Mike Onwenu and sealed by Michael Jordan for a nice run. While he’s had a strong camp overall, these mistakes are a reminder that he still has work to do.

Zuri Henry, Offensive Tackle

Henry, an undrafted rookie, has been taking reps with the second team due to injuries at the position. However, he’s struggled to hold his own, allowing a Kevin Harris stuffed run and getting beat by Armon Watts for a sack.