The New England Patriots are gearing up for training camp, and it’s a crucial time for players to make their mark. While established stars draw attention, several under-the-radar players are poised to surprise and compete for roster spots. With the pads about to come on, these athletes have a golden opportunity to showcase their skills and understanding of the game.
Head coach Mike Vrabel emphasized the importance of training camp for unearthing hidden talents. “I look forward to the first day of pads where there’s somebody that we really never saw, we never really talked about, that once the pads go on and they start to play football, they just have a contact balance, they have an understanding of where the football is, they tackle well, they break tackles or they play better in pads. That happens every year in training camp,” Vrabel said.
This article highlights seven such players who could become valuable assets to the Patriots. Keep an eye on these potential game-changers as they navigate training camp and strive to earn their place on the team.
WR Efton Chism III
Efton Chism III has already turned heads this spring and may no longer be considered completely under-the-radar. As one of the Patriots’ highest-paid undrafted free agents (UDFAs), Chism aims to continue his ascent up the depth chart this summer. His shifty slot receiver skillset has a proven track record in Josh McDaniels’ offense.
During the spring, Chism proved to be a difficult cover, leading all receivers with 15 catches in competitive team periods across five open sessions to the media. His quickness and ability to find open spaces make him a reliable target in the passing game. As training camp unfolds, Chism’s performance will be closely monitored to see if he can maintain his momentum and secure a significant role in the Patriots’ offense.
Chism’s success in training camp could provide a boost to the Patriots’ receiving corps, offering a dynamic option in the slot. His ability to create separation and make contested catches will be vital as he competes for a spot on the final roster. With the potential to become a key contributor, Efton Chism III is undoubtedly a player to watch during training camp.
OL Caedan Wallace
The additions of Will Campbell and Morgan Moses have shifted Caedan Wallace out of the starting rotation at his natural tackle position. Despite this, the door may not be entirely closed for Wallace to find his way into the starting lineup. With a lingering question mark at the left guard position, it was noteworthy that Wallace was seen repping along the inside of the backup line as the spring season concluded.
Many analysts speculated that Wallace might be best suited for the guard position when he entered the draft last season. His powerful and aggressive play style could be a good fit for the Patriots’ offensive scheme. Wallace’s ability to adapt to the guard position could significantly increase his chances of securing a spot on the roster and potentially earning a starting role.
As training camp progresses, Wallace’s performance at guard will be critical. If he demonstrates the necessary skills and versatility, he could emerge as a valuable asset to the Patriots’ offensive line. His journey from tackle to guard is an intriguing storyline to follow as the team prepares for the upcoming season.
OL Jack Conley
Another potential dark horse in the offensive line group, Jack Conley certainly looks the part with his impressive size at 6-foot-7 and 333 pounds. However, his versatility at both tackle and guard spots means you never quite know where he’ll line up. Conley’s journey to a potential 53-man roster spot is made more compelling by his background at Boston College, where offensive line coach Doug Marrone spent last season.
Conley’s experience under Marrone at Boston College gives him a unique advantage. Marrone’s familiarity with Conley’s strengths and weaknesses could play a significant role in his development and utilization during training camp. Conley’s ability to seamlessly transition between tackle and guard positions adds further value to his profile.
As training camp unfolds, Conley will need to demonstrate his technical skills and adaptability to impress the coaching staff. His size and versatility make him an intriguing prospect, and his prior connection with Coach Marrone could provide the edge he needs to secure a spot on the Patriots’ roster. Keep an eye on Conley as he battles for a place on the team.
DL Jaquelin Roy
While the return of Christian Barmore and the addition of Milton Williams have understandably dominated the headlines concerning the defensive line, the Patriots’ depth behind them is questionable—particularly when it comes to stopping the run. After being added to New England’s active roster in October of last season, Jaquelin Roy made an immediate impact. He recorded back-to-back sacks and ranked in the top 10 among all interior defensive linemen in run stops over his first five games.
Unfortunately for Roy, a neck injury followed by a fractured foot cut his season short. However, having avoided the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list, the 24-year-old will be in contention for a rotational role on the D-line. Roy’s early-season performance last year showcased his potential as a disruptive force in the trenches.
If Roy can stay healthy and recapture his previous form, he could become a valuable asset to the Patriots’ defensive line rotation. His ability to generate pressure and disrupt running lanes would provide a significant boost to the team’s defense. Watch for Roy to make a strong push during training camp as he seeks to solidify his role on the team.
ED K’Lavon Chaisson
Signed to a one-year, $3 million deal in free agency, K’Lavon Chaisson’s arrival didn’t create much of a stir even several days into free agency. However, New England had a specific plan for the former first-round edge rusher, and he was consistently involved with the first-team defense throughout the offseason program. This indicates that the Patriots see potential in Chaisson to contribute significantly to their defensive efforts.
After finishing last season in Las Vegas with a career-high 5.0 sacks—including 4.0 over his final six games—Chaisson will aim to build on his recent success and revitalize New England’s pass rush. His experience and potential make him an intriguing addition to the Patriots’ defensive lineup.
Chaisson’s performance during training camp will be crucial in determining his role within the team. If he can continue to improve and showcase his pass-rushing abilities, he could become a key player in New England’s defensive strategy. Keep an eye on Chaisson as he looks to make a significant impact this season.
S Marcus Epps
Another veteran addition who spent last season in Las Vegas, Marcus Epps, like Stefon Diggs, was fully cleared for the start of training camp despite suffering a torn ACL last season, according to Mike Vrabel. Epps will now be competing to crack a deep safety rotation where his skillset and experience as a true free safety could benefit him playing alongside the rest of New England’s safety unit.
Epps’ quick recovery from a torn ACL is a testament to his dedication and physical conditioning. His experience as a free safety brings a valuable element to the Patriots’ defense. Epps’ ability to read plays and make quick decisions in the secondary could prove to be a significant asset to the team.
As training camp unfolds, Epps will need to demonstrate his readiness and ability to integrate seamlessly into the Patriots’ defensive system. His performance will be closely watched as he competes for a prominent role in the safety rotation. With his experience and skillset, Epps has the potential to become a key leader in the Patriots’ secondary.
CB Miles Battle
Miles Battle initially joined New England’s practice squad last October but was later added to the active roster before the season finale. Battle went on to record multiple pass breakups, including two in coverage against Bills’ top draft pick, Keon Coleman. At 6-foot-3, the 25-year-old has intriguing size on the outside and will be looking to build on his season finale performance to secure a depth spot in the cornerback room.
Battle’s late-season promotion and subsequent performance demonstrated his potential to contribute at the NFL level. His size and ability to disrupt passes make him an intriguing prospect for the Patriots’ defense. Battle’s experience on the practice squad has likely provided him with a solid understanding of the team’s defensive schemes.
As training camp commences, Battle will need to showcase his continued growth and development to earn a spot on the roster. His ability to cover receivers and make impactful plays will be critical in his quest to secure a depth role in the cornerback room. Keep an eye on Battle as he strives to make the most of his opportunity during training camp.
As the New England Patriots enter training camp, several under-the-radar players are poised to make a significant impact. From shifty slot receivers like Efton Chism III to versatile offensive linemen like Jack Conley and defensive disruptors like Jaquelin Roy, these athletes have the potential to surprise and contribute to the team’s success.
Veteran additions such as K’Lavon Chaisson and Marcus Epps bring experience and skillsets that could revitalize key areas of the Patriots’ defense. Meanwhile, young talents like Miles Battle are eager to build on their previous performances and secure a spot on the roster.
Training camp is a crucial period for these players to showcase their abilities and demonstrate their value to the team. As head coach Mike Vrabel noted, it’s a time when hidden talents emerge and players can solidify their roles. Keep a close watch on these seven under-the-radar Patriots as they navigate training camp and compete for a place on the final roster. Their journeys could be key to the Patriots’ success in the upcoming season.
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