The Patriots have now completed two weeks of training camp practices, with the first preseason game approaching quickly. As such, we’ve gathered a wealth of information about the current roster.
While some of the anticipated players have excelled this summer, others have struggled to make an impression and might soon face cuts. Much of the excitement surrounding the team has centered on the offense, which shows significant improvement over last season.
However, there are also some compelling young prospects on the defensive side. Joshua Farmer, Bradyn Swinson, Craig Woodson, and Kobee Minor were drafted in 2025, but the standout performer has been undrafted free agent Elijah Ponder, who particularly shone during Monday’s practice.
Patriots insider Carlos A. Lopez pointed out that Ponder won an impressive four matchups in the 1-on-1 drills. He highlighted Ponder’s “ability to bend the edge,” and it seems he wasn’t the only one who took notice.
#Patriots Training Camp Notes [Full Pads] (8/4):
𝗢𝗳𝗳𝗲𝗻𝘀𝗲
• WR Javon Baker caught 3(!) straight TDs delivered by QB Josh Dobbs during 7-on-7s — Baker rose up and moss’d CB Kobee Minor on a fade for one of the TDs.
• RB TreVeyon Henderson got open down the sideline on a… pic.twitter.com/gS2MYJFiro
— Carlos A. Lopez (@LosTalksPats) August 4, 2025
Andrew Callahan from the Boston Herald also expressed his admiration for the undrafted free agent on Monday, labeling it a “huge day for the underrated EDGE.”
This development is promising for the Patriots, as their edge-rushing unit is not particularly deep. While Harold Landry III was acquired during free agency, he appears to be past his prime and has never been an elite pass-rusher. Anfernee Jennings is currently expected to start opposite him, but Jennings has never exceeded 2.5 sacks in a season.
It will be intriguing to see if Ponder can maintain this positive momentum into the preseason. With a strong performance during these games, he could easily secure a spot on the final roster and potentially become a valuable rotational player in his debut season.
Image Source: Under The Radar Prospects @ YouTube
