Patriots training camp recap: Christian Gonzalez a full participant on Day 1

Key Points:

• The New England Patriots began their 2026 training camp with a 90-minute, no-pads practice focused on installing the zone run game, emphasizing outside zone runs for first and second downs with tempo.
• Edge rusher Gabe Jacas was absent but may join practices soon after agreeing to terms on his rookie contract; four other players were on injury or non-football injury lists, but no new injuries were reported.
• Cornerback Christian Gonzalez fully participated in the session following a contract extension that made him the highest-paid cornerback in NFL history, marking a shift from his limited involvement in spring workouts.
• Quarterback Drake Maye showed aggression in limited passing attempts, connecting on several notable throws including a deep pass to Kayshon Boutte and key completions to Hunter Henry and DeMario Douglas.
• The Patriots employed their expected starting offensive line with some rotation, continued to use three-safety big nickel defensive packages featuring new free agent Mike Brown in the slot, and saw no major issues aside from a bad snap between Jared Wilson and Maye.