5 takeaways from Day 19 of Patriots training camp

The Patriots’ second-to-last practice before Sunday’s preseason finale was largely a walkthrough in shorts and shells.

New England spent a considerable amount of time preparing for Washington with the first-team defense going against the scout team offense.

For the most part, Drake Maye and Jacoby Brissett looked sharp. Bailey Zappe got more reps than he has in a while, playing the role of scout team quarterback.

As the injuries continue to pile up on the offensive line, the Patriots put together a new offensive line grouping.

Here’s five takeaways from the action.

With Lowe out, Onwenu shifts to tackle

Vederian Lowe, who left Wednesday’s practice early with an injury, was on the sidelines wearing a jersey but not in pads.

The injury is a minor oblique injury that isn’t expected to be a long-term issue, according to The Boston Globe‘s Chris Price.

With Lowe out, the Patriots shifted Chukwuma Okorafor from right-tackle to left tackle. Mike Onwenu moved over from his guard spot to right tackle. Rookie guard Layden Robinson, who had been competing with Sidy Sow for the other guard spot, was out there alongside Sow with the starters on Thursday. David Andrews remained at center.

Lots of work for Bailey Zappe as scout team QB

With the Patriots preparing for the Commanders, the Patriots had Bailey Zappe run the scout team offense.

He fared well during the team drills, which were at times less than full speed. He didn’t have any turnovers and distributed the ball quickly.

It was a lighter day for Drake Maye and Jacoby Brissett, who are competing for the starting spot. Both quarterbacks looked good with the reduced pace and contact, completing the vast majority of their throws.

Maye picked off in two minute drill

The only interception of the day was from Maye.

He had a pass tipped by defensive Dell Pettus and defensive lineman Tristen Hill made the catch to secure the pick.

The defensive players, particularly the defensive linemen, were pumped to see Hill make the play and it was an energetic way to close out practice.

“I was happy, man. I couldn’t believe it too,” defensive lineman Daniel Ekuale said. “We call him Full Speed. Every time he comes out, he’s explosive. I like his energy, he just does everything full speed.”

Alex Van Pelt praises Tyquan Thornton

Tyquan Thornton, Ja’Lynn Polk, and Demario Douglas appeared to be the receivers out there the most with the top unit.

The coaching staff seems to be placing an emphasis on having more speed on the field with the receiver group than last year, and Thornton appears to be fitting into that theme.

“His ability to separate is special,” offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt said. “His speed down the field, his ability to run away from coverage and man coverage, all those things. And he’s really been tough at the catch point this year. So he’s getting stronger in that regard. Hoping to see him shine here in this next game.”

Thornton, who was a second-round pick in 2022, has yet to top 250 receiving yards in a season and has just two touchdowns in two seasons. His first two seasons were impacted by injuries. So far this summer he’s been more durable, but he still has a lot to prove.

“I’m definitely feeling more confident, just building my routine,” Thornton said. “Just working on myself this offseason, working on all the little things I need to get better at and making my strengths even better.”

Living on the edge

With Matthew Judon gone, the Patriots will rely on multiple players to fill his role as an edge rusher.

So far, the results have been solid, linebacker Ja’Whaun Bentley said.

“Obviously we have to have our guys step up. Anfernee Jennings, Keion White, Josh Uche are eager to step up into those roles,” Bentley said. “Obviously not trying to be Matt in no way shape or form but they’re doing a solid job. They just have to keep doing what they’re doing because they’re on the right track.”