Patriots Preseason Week 1: Quick Hitters

Offense

Justin Herron had two false starts early and looked out of sync with QBs Brian Hoyer and Bailey Zappe. Herron is battling with Yodny Cajuste for the team's swing tackle role.

Second year WR Tre Nixon redeemed himself nicely after dropping a third down pass from Brian Hoyer by making a few nice catches on underthrown balls.

Wide Receiver Kristian Wilkerson also had a nice night. He was getting consistent separation from DBs and made a number of impressive catches on the sideline.

In limited action, second round pick Tyquan Thornton looked speedy and used some strength to break free of a defensive hold and get loose in the end zone for a touchdown.

Defense

Third year edge rusher Josh Uche looked like he was ready to make a difference this year as he consistently pressured Daniel Jones and came up with a nice sack in the first quarter.

Former Alabama DL Labryan Ray continued his stellar effort from training camp into the preseason and looked like a candidate to extend the Patriots streak of having at least one rookie undrafted free agent make the roster.

Former Texan and free agent signee Terrance Mitchell had the highlight of the game and had a perfectly executed "Peanut Punch" on Kenny Golladay which Malcolm Butler recovered.

Special Teams

Defensive back Myles Bryant handled punt return duty last night and looked like he had been doing it in the NFL for years. Although last night was just a preseason game, Bryant was decisive and shifty.