Talk about making a statement! Rookie wide receiver Romeo Doubs didn’t just show up to Patriots practice on Saturday; he flat-out dominated the red zone, snatching multiple high-point touchdowns and proving he’s on an absolute tear. The team donned full pads for a gritty two-hour session, locked in on those critical red zone and end-of-game scenarios, and Doubs was the undeniable star of the show.
Doubs’ Dominance Steals the Spotlight
This guy is on fire, no kidding. Coach Mike Vrabel noticed it, saying he saw Doubs’ progression “the same way,” noting how he’s “figuring out the player, getting to know him. Really, a lot of positive things, I think, trending in the right direction.” And Doubs wasted no time proving Vrabel right. He was pulling down high-point touchdowns all over the field, including two jaw-dropping grabs in full-team work. We’re talking about him literally climbing the ladder over cornerback Charles Woods to cap off a Drake Maye end-of-game situation. And just to rub it in, Doubs went right back at Woods in the very next red zone period, hauling another one in the front right of the end zone. He wasn’t the only receiver eating, either, with Mack Hollins also snagging two play-action targets early on. This kind of red zone success is exactly what the offense needs.
A Growing Injury Report and Vrabel’s Direct Take
While the offense was cooking, the injury list for the Patriots felt like a full novel. Star cornerback Christian Gonzalez was again absent, a big concern. Vrabel was quick to shut down any contract speculation, stating, “I’ve talked about his professionalism, everybody else’s. So, this isn’t anything [contract related]. It was something that happened in practice, and he’s where he’s supposed to be when he needs to be there. Treatment, working with Frank [Piraino] and doing those things.” That’s a relief, but still, a key player is out.
The bad news kept coming, too. Top edge rusher Dre’Mont Jones left practice early with head trainer Jim Whalen during a 1-on-1 period, walking to the medical shed before departing with a member of the training staff. Offensive linemen Ben Brown and Andrew Rupcich were out after getting banged up Thursday night, with Vrabel confirming Brown will be sidelined for multiple weeks, likely through the end of preseason. This led to the team signing depth linemen Darrian Dalcourt and Joe Michalski, meaning two roster spots will be opening up. Linebackers Chad Muma and Xavier Holmes were also absent due to injuries, while Christian Elliss was limited. You also had Julian Ashby and Charles Woods returning, but Woods was stuck in a red non-contact jersey. Plus, Harold Landry III and Brenden Schooler are still on PUP/NFI. That’s a lot of bodies missing, and it’s a big deal.
With injuries piling up but the offense showing serious flashes, especially in the red zone, the Patriots are heading into the next week with a lot to sort out. They’ve got to tighten things up and make sure they’re ready for whatever comes next.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Pats Pulpit.
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