7 Patriots that stood out on day 13 of open practices in Foxboro

The 13th open practice of the summer took place on Sunday for the New England Patriots, as they prepare for their upcoming preseason match against the Green Bay Packers. The day featured a more condensed session with a focus on walkthroughs, primarily held on the lower fields. Although the practice was not accessible to the general public, it remained open for media coverage.

The following seven players caught the attention of onlookers during Sunday’s practice, each for their own distinct reasons…

TE Mike Gesicki

New England Patriots’ tight end Mike Gesicki (88) showcased his skills during Sunday’s training camp session, earning recognition for his outstanding performance. In 11-on-11 drills, Gesicki stood out by making two impressive catches down the seam, connecting with quarterback Mac Jones. While securing these catches, Gesicki displayed agility and control in his leaps and twists, showing his ability to position himself well to receive the passes. Jones exhibited precision in ball placement, ensuring that only Gesicki could reach the football.The rapport between Jones and Gesicki is visibly strengthening as they rebuild their synergy. Despite a subdued start to the training camp, Gesicki has recently been responsible for some of the most remarkable receptions of the summer. His unique combination of size, standing at 6 feet 6 inches with 34-inch arms, and exceptional skills in the passing game set him apart from other players on the roster.During Sunday’s practice, there was a notable shift in roles as Hunter Henry saw some reps with the second-string players, while Gesicki took on a more prominent role as a lead tight end. This adjustment should not be overinterpreted; however, it indicates encouraging progress. Gesicki’s meaningful involvement in plays alongside Jones suggests promising developments, with the duo successfully connecting for dynamic plays downfield.During the same 11-on-11 session, there was an instance where the connection between Gesicki and Jones fell short on a third deep pass. The play was disrupted by safety Adrian Phillips, who effectively thwarted the route and prevented the completion. Despite this missed opportunity, Phillips acknowledged the impressive performance of the tight ends during training camp.Phillips recognized the value of having multiple formidable threats on the field. He praised Gesicki, highlighting his experience as a route-runner and his ability to cleverly maneuver to get open. Phillips emphasized that Gesicki’s skills add a layer of complexity to the game plan for opponents. He also mentioned the challenge posed by both Gesicki and Hunter Henry on the field simultaneously, noting that facing them together is making the defense significantly better.The presence of players like Gesicki and Henry, with their respective strengths, is contributing to the team’s growth and improvement during training camp.

WR DeVante Parker

In a later 11-on-11 red zone session at the 2023 training camp in Foxboro, New England Patriots’ wide receiver DeVante Parker showcased his skills. Matched up against Jack Jones (whose role will be discussed later), Parker impressively secured a corner fade pass. This successful connection was a welcome sight for Parker, who has occasionally faced pass breakups on similar plays during team drills.The dynamic between Parker and Jones reflects a sense of confidence within the Patriots’ new offensive scheme. DeVante Parker, an experienced receiver, has always possessed a substantial amount of talent. His challenge lies in demonstrating consistent performance while remaining on the field. This glimpse of synergy between Parker and Jones provides optimism for his potential to contribute effectively within the team’s revamped offensive strategy.

CB Jack Jones

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At the 2023 training camp in Foxboro, New England Patriots’ cornerback Jack Jones was seen sprinting during a practice session, as captured by Eric Canha-USA TODAY Sports.

During a red zone 11-on-11 segment, Jack Jones encountered some challenges in coverage. He conceded consecutive catches to both DeVante Parker and Kendrick Bourne. In a minor display of frustration, Jones vented by kicking the pylon as he exited the field after the play. Although this incident doesn’t have significant ramifications in the larger context, it’s worth noting that such actions would likely result in a penalty in an actual game. It is hoped that Jones will have addressed this frustration and moved past it by the time the regular season games commence, ensuring his focus and discipline remain intact on the field.

CB Christian Gonzalez

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In the midst of the 2023 training camp held in Foxboro, New England Patriots’ cornerback Christian Gonzalez (50) was captured sprinting in action, as captured by Eric Canha-USA TODAY Sports.

In a later segment of the red zone practice, Gonzalez displayed his skills by making a noteworthy interception. He successfully seized a slightly underthrown pass from Mac Jones, which was intended for JuJu Smith-Schuster. As a rookie, Gonzalez is expected to experience a mix of successes and challenges throughout his inaugural NFL season. However, these fluctuations signify two significant points: his capability as a starting-caliber cornerback and his considerable playing time on the field. This interception serves as a promising indication of Gonzalez’s potential impact as he continues to adapt and grow in his role within the team.

OT Sidy Sow

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Foxborough, MA: New England Patriots tackle Sidy Sow (61) blocks Houston Texans defensive end Will Anderson Jr. (51) away from quarterback Bailey Zappe (4) during a preseason game at Gillette Stadium. (Eric Canha-USA TODAY Sports)

Sow took snaps with the starters at right tackle during 11-on-11 for the first time in training camp on Sunday. He had been with the No. 2 offense prior to that. Sow came out of college and entered the draft as a guard, but he’s spent most, if not all his time at right tackle for the Patriots. A good sign for the rookie out of Eastern Michigan.

OL Riley Reiff

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Foxborough, MA: New England Patriots offensive tackle Riley Reiff (74) works with a weight bag during 2023 training camp. (Eric Canha-USA TODAY Sports)

Reiff has had a rough camp, based solely on how he’s being used. He started out as the No. 1 right tackle, but has since slipped to a backup left tackle/swing tackle role. On Sunday, however, Reiff was tried out at right guard. Something to keep an eye on, as the Patriots remained without both projected starters at the position in team drills on Sunday.

QB/WR Malik Cunningham