The Patriots finish their preseason schedule for the 2024 season with an away game in Landover, Maryland, against the Washington Commanders on what seemed like a nearly perfect night. The last two games against the Panthers and Eagles were far from perfect, as rain made it difficult for players to perform well and made it difficult for coaches to evaluate the team.
Fortunately, the current weather forecast for this Sunday night game is for mostly clear skies with lows of 19°C and light winds. Conditions are more favourable as the deadline for squad cuts, set for Tuesday 27 August, is just around the corner.
The new regime in New England has many things to consider as it trims the roster from the 90 players currently under contract to the 53 planned for the season, plus the 16 players each team is allowed to recall to its practice squad.
The biggest focus will inevitably be on the offense, especially the quarterbacks, as all four are expected to play.
With the Patriots among the last teams to still have a rookie quarterback in the starting lineup, Drake Mayes’ play will dominate the discussion, even more so as calls for his use in Week 1 grow louder.
Receiving Corps will also be a notable competition, with only four spots likely already filled. That leaves two to three open spots for players to fight for, and the battle so far looks much more exciting than expected.
The continued focus will be on the pass rush, with Matthew Judon no longer with the team and us getting a clear indication of who will be named the Patriots kicker next season, which already seems to be pointing to Joey Slye. The veteran was the specialist in last week’s game, and if that continues this week, expect Chad Ryland to be displaced.
All of this will take place on Sunday night in Washington, DC and the teams are lucky and the weather is perfect for squad evaluation.
