With the Patriots set to take on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers tonight at Gillette Stadium, here's a look at this morning's links:
BOSTON GLOBE:
Patriots need to improve their pass rush - Ben Volin - Volin writes that now that fans know that Tom Brady is OK, they should now instead should be focused on the side of the football that deserves scrutiny: the defense.
Tom Brady Should Play Against Buccaneers - Adam Kaufman - Kaufman writes that Brady should play and that to him, "it's inevitable. It's also a good thing."
New NFL security measures to debut at Gillette tonight - Katheleen Conti - Conti writes that thousands of fans will have to keep an eye on new security measures banning most bags from Gillette Stadium thanks to the new bag policy
RI rail service to Foxboro to return for Patriots - AP - The Globe has an AP article focusing on the fact train service between Rhode Island and Foxboro is set to resume.
Patriots release WR Michael Jenkins, place OL Tyronne Green on injured reserve - Zuri Berry - Berry has a quick entry on the fact the Patriots released veteran wide receiver Michael Jenkins and placed offensive lineman Tyronne Green on injured reserve on Thursday.
'Great sign' as Tom Brady returns to Patriots - Shalise Manza Young - In this article Manza Young writes that, "Brady received a hero's welcome from the crowd, likely a little more excited than usual to see the Patriots quarterback," when he returned to practice on Thursday.
Behind enemy lines: Mark Sanchez and EJ Manuel emerging as starters in different ways - Erik Frenz - Frenz takes a look at a couple of players around the AFC East, including the fact that Sanchez will get the nod to start against the Jaguars this week.
BOSTON HERALD:
NOTEBOOK Steve Gregory again safely in mix - Jeff Howe - Howe writes that Patriots safety Steve Gregory, "has seemingly gotten an equal run of starting reps as Adrian Wilson, as the two battle for the starting job next to Devin McCourty."
Duron Harmon follows veteran's lead - Adam Kurkjian - Kurkjian writes that veteran Steve Gregory has been a help to Harmon so far during training camp, and as been a help teaching him on the mental aspect of the game.
"Steve gives me advice more on the mental aspect of the game. He's a very, very intelligent football player," Harmon said. "He really takes control of the game when he's at safety. And I just try to watch him as closely as possible just to see what he sees and when I don't understand something that he does, I quickly ask him a question."
Patriots-Bucs: Five things to watch tonight - Jeff Howe - Howe has his five things to watch for tonight, one of which will be the performance of Ryan Mallett who was knocked out of the team's preseason opener against the Eagles.
Buckley: Tom Brady scare one painful reminder - Steve Buckley - After the injury to Brady earlier this week Buckley writes when it comes to Brady, "it's the unknown that's going to get in the way. That, and the inevitable march of time."
Tom Brady shows no ill effects, works full practice - Jeff Howe - Howe writes that despite Wednesday's injury scare, Brady took every single snap in practice on Thursday.
ESPN BOSTON:
W2W4: Five things we'll be focused on - Mike Reiss - Reiss has his items to watch tonight, and wonders if tight end Jake Ballard ready for increased workload?
NESN:
Patriots Fulfill Eduardo Martinez's Dream Courtesy of Make-A-Wish Foundation - Cameron McDonough - McDonough writes that Eduardo Martinez, who attended Patriots practice on Thursday courtesy of the Make-A-Wish Foundation and the Patriots Charitable Foundation, got to put on a helmet and join Brady and the offense in the huddle before running for a touchdown against the Buccaneers in what was a great moment.
Patriots-Buccaneers Live: Duron Harmon, Jake Ballard, Quentin Sims Among Players to Watch - Doug Kyed - Kyed leads off his "LIVE BLOG" for tonight, and gives his thoughts on some of the guys to keep an eye on, several of which are obviously in the headline.
WEEI:
Don't Expect to See These Guys Friday Night Against Tampa - Christopher Price - Price takes a look at the attendance record for this week at practice, and lists players who aren't expected to play tonight against Tampa Bay.
MASSLIVE.COM
What to watch: New England Patriots continue preseason Friday night against Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Nick Underhill - Underhill has his areas to keep an eye on tonight, one of which includes Brandon Bolden vs LeGarrette Blount. Blount obviously had a big game last week against the Eagles and now it's up to Bolden to rebound.
ENTERPRISE NEWS:
PATRIOTS NOTEBOOK: Allen mounting challenge to Mesko for Patriots' punting chores - Glen Farley - Farley files his notebook this morning and it leads off with his look at the ongoing battle between Ryan Allen and Zoltan Mesko at the punting position this preseason.
PATCH.COM:
Patriots Fans Taking the Train to Gillette Stadium Urged to Leave Bags at Homes - Mark Oullette - Oullette writes that fans who are headed to Gillette need to make sure they leave their bags at home if they're not familiar with the league's new "bag policy".
More News Headlines:
MORSE: Looking At Patriots Wide Receiver Room and Gabe Jacas Mess
By: Mark MorseThe Patriots' wide receiver room is under review, highlighting AJ Brown, Demario Douglas, and key battles. The Gabe Jacas controversy adds intrigue.
Key Questions Remain After Patriots Mini Camp: Little Margin For Error at Several Positions
By: Ian LogueReviewing Patriots minicamp, key questions remain for 2026 concerning the offensive line, linebacker, receiver depth, tight end, and Drake Maye's role.
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.