Friday night’s Patriots win over the Panthers provided another opportunity for those players on the roster bubble to catch the coach’s eye and a number of new-ish Pats did just that, making some key plays that show the potential contributions they could make.
With just one more week of preseason to go and final cuts down to 53 players looming on August 30, time is of the essence for this group as they’ll look to carry over the momentum into joint practices and the final game against the Raiders.
Here are five who stood out against the Panthers that fans should be keeping an eye on.
With five catches for 71 yards, Humphrey led the Patriots in receiving while also making a dynamic special teams play, tapping a punted ball out of the end zone to have it downed at the Carolina three-yard-line. This performance came a week after Humphrey posted six catches for 62 yards and a touchdown against the Giants, as the big receiver is really coming on after arriving late in the spring.
“He’s made some plays for us since he’s been here,” said head coach Bill Belichick after the game. “He’s a big kid that is tough and has very good hands and is kind of a big receiver, tight end-ish type of guy, has a good feel, very good instincts in the passing game, handles himself well in the middle of the field with linebackers under him, over him, in between him… That was a player that we got late, wasn’t with us in the spring, signed him in July, or late June, whatever it was. He’s coming off an injury last year, but he’s come in, really worked hard and made a very positive impression here. We’re glad we have him.”
Humphrey’s chemistry with rookie Bailey Zappe has been apparent, but he’ll look to build on his connection with starter Mac Jones to show what elements he can bring to the main attack. This week could provide an opportunity to get a longer look at him with the top unit.
“I think L.J. is a beast, and when he got signed here, I remember I texted him and asked him if he wanted to…
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