During the first quarter of Sunday's game in the Meadowlands, I noticed something Brady did after completing a 12-yard pass to wide receiver Chad Ochocinco.
Brady, shown in the image below, gave Ochocinco the "thumbs up" and appeared to mouth the words "you're ok" following the completion. Ochocinco has been under a huge microscope since being acquired by the Patriots in the off-season, and while he has not produced the way some Patriots fans were hoping, there has been a slight increase in his role throughout the season.
I am not sure Ochocinco will ever be a five catch receiver for New England, but I maintain he could play a valuable role for the team later in the season. He was brought in to beat one-on-one match ups against defenders and give Brady another option and he showed a small sample he could develop into that role within this offense.
After the team cut ties with Albert Haynesworth last week, some fans called for Ochocinco's release as well, however, many members in the Patriots organization still believe in Ochocinco. The wide out's increased reps, the coaching staff's vote of confidence in him, and Brady's positive reinforcement show the team is not ready to give up on Ocho.
Ochocinco's tenture has not been ideal, but the team's support should give Patriots fans a reason to remain hopeful.
Do you have a Twitter account? Be sure to follow me:@PatriotsHaven!
More News Headlines:
Patriots News 06-14, Patriots Wrap Up Spring Workouts
By: Steve BalestrieriPatriots wrap up spring workouts, looking ahead to training camp and the 2026 season. Drake Maye's development, A.J. Brown & Romeo Doubs boost offense.
Patriots Rookie Lomu Reveals “Weird” First Days at Right Tackle
By: Ian LoguePatriots rookie Caleb Lomu details his 'weird' initial adjustment to right tackle after college, now feeling natural with veteran Morgan Moses' help.
Vrabel’s Goal For Christian Barmore in 2026: “Being able to finish”
By: Ian LogueVrabel challenges Christian Barmore to 'finish' plays and increase sacks in 2026. His season management is also detailed.
MORSE: Day 3 of Patriots Mini-Camp
By: Mark MorseAnalyzing Patriots mini-camp Day 3, Drake Maye's red zone work, a late hit, and defensive dominance highlighted a spirited practice.
TRANSCRIPT: Mike Vrabel Press Conference 6/11
By: Ian LogueHere's the full transcript of what New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel had to say during his press conference on Thursday, June 11th, 2026.