Patriots Mandatory Minicamp: No JuJu; What to Watch For?

The New England Patriots are set to begin mandatory minicamp at Gillette Stadium as they conclude their 2023 offseason workout program.

FOXBORO — The New England Patriots still don't have their JuJu.

The Pats are set to begin the next phase of their preparatory program for 2023, as mandatory minicamp opens Monday. With a rejuvenated offensive coaching staff, some key veteran additions via free agency and a rookie class which features a highly-touted first round draft choice, they will have their share of storylines heading into this trio of training days on the practice fields adjacent to Gillette Stadium.

However, their prized acquisition from the offseason - receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster - reportedly won't be on the practice field because of injury/health concerns. The Patriots have been cautious with Smith-Schuster since signing him to a three-year, $25.5 million contract in free agency, and have yet to put him onto the field during their offseason program.

For the next three days, evaluations will be made, predictions will be offered and the occasional ‘take’ will provide ample fodder for the sports debate fire that will rage throughout the region until the start of training camp in late July.

As rumors continue to swirl regarding the Pats potential pursuit of a “game-breaking” wide receiver, here is a look at what to watch during the next three days.

Will the Mac Jones-Bill O’Brien Connection Continue?

One of the key takeaways from the Patriots offseason workout program to date has been the emergence of coordinator Bill O’Brien as the team’s alpha presence on offense. By all accounts, O’Brien has been given significant control both on the field and in the meeting rooms. In fact, both O’Brien and quarterback Mac Jones have been operating as a tandem from which notable improvement is expected in 2023. Jones has operated as the team’s top option at the position, with second-year quarterback Bailey Zappe handling the second-team duties. During structured team drills, Jones had primarily worked with the team’s presumed offensive starters, throwing the ball with accuracy, authority and confidence. Though there is still a great amount to be seen on the field between now and the start of the 2023 regular season, New England’s offense is already showing an efficiency seldom, if ever seen in 2022.

Marte Mapu Continues to Impress 

New England’s third-round (No. 76 overall) 2023 Draft choice has been among the most impressive Patriots’ players during organized team activities, displaying both a strong grasp of the team’s defensive schemes while turning in a handful of eye-catching plays. Mapu has not only demonstrated an awareness to read the quarterback, he has also shown an ability to draw a bead on the football. Though officially listed as a linebacker by the team, the 6-3, 216-pound defender has aligned as a free saftey, cornerback and even took some reps at the nickel corner. Should his reps continue to increase, Mapu may be working his way into the team’s defensive rotation in 2023. 

Ty Montgomery and the Backfield 

Following a strong performance during 2022 training camp, Montgomery was expected to play a prominent role in the Pats offense, as well as special teams in his first year with the club. However, the Stamford product suffered a knee injury in the Pats preseason finale, which would ultimately end his season after taking only 21 snaps in the team’s season opener against the Miami Dolphins. Still, the Patriots have high hopes for him as a solid reserve contributor on offense in 2023. During his usage during OTAs, he appeared to be settling into an offensive option on third-down, as well as a backfield receiver. He was also the logical choice as their third Z-receiver option [off the line of scrimmage] on select packages. Though Montgomery is not expected to supplant either top running back Rhamondre Stevenson, or newly-acquired James Robinson, the veteran rusher may find his niche in New England in a situational role. 

Christian Gonzalez is Worth the Hype

Gonzalez has the chance to become the Patriots most athletic and complete corner since the departure of former All-Pro Stephon Gilmore. The Oregon product aligned as a starter on the outside during offseason team drills, opposite veteran Jonathan Jones. Cornerback (expected to turn safety) Jalen Mills played the slot while second-year defensive back Jack Jones also saw some work on the outside. Still, Gonzalez has been the standout at the position, showcasing his abilities as an athletic corner by making an impressive one-armed interception during a recent practice session. From his usage, New England appears to view Gonzalez as an immediate contributor at cover corner who flashes the ability to lock down his side of the field. It will be interesting to see whether he will get the chance to do so for the Pats opposite the Joneses (both Jonathan and Jack) during the next three days. 

Keion White In a Rush? … As in, Pass Rush? 

Though the team will not be putting on pads for several weeks, second-round Draft choice Keion White (No. 46 overall) is already impressing the masses with his aggressive, physical style of play. Though he may be a rookie, White is already receiving regular looks with the starters. Though contact is still prohibited, the 24-year-old routinely finds himself in position to put notable pressure on the quarterback. Known primarily for his edge rush prowess during his time at Georgia Tech, White was a jack of all trades during the Pats offseason workout program. The 6-4, 287-pounder has aligned at outside linebacker, set in a three-point stance, rushed the passer, played the run, and even dropped into coverage. Like Gonzalez and Mapu, White continues to demonstrate why this Pats’ Draft class has the chance to be one of New England’s best in recent memory. 

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