SITTING THIS ONE OUT?: Quarterback Drake Maye took on a heavier workload with significant team-period snaps on Tuesday, which could be a sign that he will not suit up Thursday night against the Giants. Nicole Yang has more notes and observations from the Patriots’ final practice before heading to New Jersey for their third and final preseason game.
THE WAY BACK: Justin Hamilton understands there’s some concern about the absences of Christian Gonzalez and Carlton Davis, but the Patriots’ cornerbacks coach said before Tuesday’s practice that both are working to play in the regular-season opener. Christopher Price has more.
BIG ROLE FOR BIG BEN?: Entering his first full season with the Patriots, Ben Brown’s grown into an integral part of the offensive line. Christopher Price writes that the 6-foot-5-inch Brown, who started 10 games for New England last season at center, has shown versatility this summer, flipping from left guard to center and back again as he vies with Jared Wilson, Cole Strange, and Caedan Wallace for snaps.
KEEPING AN OPEN MIND: Executive vice president of player personnel Eliot Wolf said he would “absolutely” be willing to swing a big trade at this point in the preseason. Players that might be available include wide receiver Terry McLaurin, defensive end Trey Hendrickson, and edge rusher Micah Parsons. Nicole Yang has more.
ANOTHER STATUE AT GILLETTE: Devin McCourty endorsed the building of a Bill Belichick statue at One Patriot Place during an interview with WEEI’s “The Greg Hill Show,” saying it’d be “ridiculous” if he didn’t get one. Conor Roche has the story.
AROUND THE LEAGUE: The Dolphins made their signing of former Patriot Matthew Judon official Tuesday after working out the veteran the day prior and added cornerback depth by signing veteran Cameron Dantzler Sr. ... Colts coach Shane Steichen announced that
Daniel Jones would start the Sept. 7 season opener against the Dolphins, beating out Anthony Richardson. ... The Browns announced that Joe Flacco
will get the start when they host the AFC North rival Cincinnati Bengals in the Sept. 7 opener.
See more Patriots stories here. | 
