Nashville, TN – The Patriots wrapped up their preseason with a 23-7 defeat against the Titans at Nissan Stadium on Friday night.

Given that the Patriots rested most of their starters and had 14 active players sidelined, the game had the typical atmosphere of a preseason finale. Operating with a makeshift offensive line, New England struggled to gain traction, amassing just 79 total yards and eight first downs over 42 offensive plays in a lackluster performance.

In this matchup, the Patriots’ defense managed to make more impactful plays compared to the offense. However, few takeaways from this game are likely to carry over as relevant talking points for the regular season. The Patriots are now gearing up for a showdown with the reigning NFC champions as they kick off the regular season. They had 18 training camp practices, engaged in two joint sessions, and underwent one preseason audition for the starting lineup – that’s what they have to work with. The preseason has officially concluded.

Here are ten key observations as the Patriots concluded their preseason in Tennessee:

1. Standout Player of the Game presented by Enel: Linebacker Calvin Munson

While the significance of preseason finales in the NFL has diminished, Munson’s performance on special teams had already placed him on the roster bubble. On Friday night, the Patriots’ linebacker stood out with ten tackles, one tackle for loss, and an interception that resulted from a well-executed tip-drill. Munson’s potential inclusion on the team was likely even before this game due to his skills in special-teams coverage. However, his impressive showing, including his ability to provide depth at the linebacker position, solidified his case.

Munson showcased his quick closing speed by swiftly targeting the play-side gap during a zone run in the first quarter. He also demonstrated excellent awareness by intercepting a pass deflected by a teammate, snatching it off the ground and effectively picking off Titans quarterback Malik Willis. Munson might find himself in a challenging numbers game, but he’s likely to remain on the roster or become a strong contender for the practice squad.

2. Veteran Guard/Tackle Riley Reiff Exits the Game, Adding to Patriots’ O-Line Injury Woes

Already missing five injured offensive linemen who were unavailable for the game, the Patriots encountered another setback. Rookie guard Atonio Mafi’s absence was a surprise, and this situation was compounded when projected starting guard/tackle Riley Reiff left the game due to a suspected leg injury. Reiff had been practicing at right guard recently, with rookie Sidy Sow receiving opportunities at right tackle. The Patriots’ optimal offensive line configuration had included Reiff, who could play either guard or tackle, along with expected returns of starters Mike Onwenu and Cole Strange by Week 1. Earlier in the week, Onwenu was officially removed from the physically unable to perform (PUP) list, and Strange is anticipated to be ready for the regular season, according to reports.

Mafi, a fifth-round pick from UCLA, demonstrated steady progress during his first training camp as a rookie. If he were to step into a starting role, he could hold his own. Another young lineman making a case for a roster spot is second-year guard Chasen Hines. Hines possesses the size and athleticism that align with the power run scheme, enabling him to effectively block while on the move. Despite a missed block leading to initial pressure resulting in a strip sack, Hines contributed to Kevin Harris’s five-yard touchdown run and impeded safety Amani Hooker on a screen. If the Patriots are faced with multiple absences on the interior line, Hines might secure a place on the team.

3. Is Rookie Wide Receiver Kayshon Boutte a Lock for the Roster After a Brief Appearance?

The Patriots chose to rest their top five wide receivers and their top two tight ends for the game. Although some regular players were nursing injuries, Kayshon Boutte was the sole wide receiver vying for a roster spot to receive limited opportunities on offense. He participated in just three offensive snaps. Additionally, Boutte handled one kick return that resulted in a touchback. Two possibilities emerge: either the Patriots intended to keep Boutte under the radar, preventing additional preseason footage if he ends up on waivers, or Boutte’s roster spot is secure, rendering further demonstration unnecessary. From my perspective, Boutte’s inclusion on the roster is likely. The rookie displayed considerable potential in recent weeks, highlighted by his 42-yard touchdown in Green Bay and consistent improvement in practice. His upside is significant, making it improbable for the Patriots to release him.

4. Patriots’ Third-Round Pick Marte Mapu Makes Preseason Debut against Titans

Marte Mapu had spent most of the summer in a non-contact jersey, recovering from pectoral surgery earlier in the offseason. Finally, he entered the game action on Friday night. Although not flawless, Mapu’s versatility, quickness, and physicality were evident during his 27 snaps. The third-round rookie contributed across the defensive line, in the box, over the slot, and even spent a snap in wide corner coverage (against a tight end). He also played 11 snaps as a free safety.

Mapu engaged in man coverage, flat/hook zones, support in robber/rat schemes, split-safety zone plays, and took on roles as a sub-package linebacker. His capabilities span various positions. Notable highlights included an explosive coverage stop when serving as a flat defender. Here, he demonstrated his rapid acceleration and leveraged positioning to force an incomplete pass in the red zone. However, Mapu’s debut displayed moments of overenthusiasm, causing him to opt for forceful contact instead of sound tackling technique, leading to two missed tackles. Nonetheless, his physicality and speed were evident. Overall, his debut was promising and showcased his potential impact.