The New England Patriots will face off against the New York Giants on Thursday night, wrapping up their 2025 preseason schedule. As the team gears up for its regular season opener on September 7 against the Raiders, coaches are using this final game to evaluate roster battles and depth chart movement.
Three key position groups will be under scrutiny:
Offensive Line Battles: With most starters expected to sit out, the focus shifts to backups competing for significant roles. Cole Strange is likely to get center reps, while Vederian Lowe, Caedan Wallace, Sidy Sow, and Marcus Bryant will battle for interior swing backup spots.
Secondary Shakeup: The safety position features a potential shakeup, with Craig Woodson looking to secure his role alongside veterans Marcus Epps and Jaylinn Hawkins. Cornerback competition is also intense, with D.J. James seeking to regain form after an injury hiatus, while Miles Battle holds down one outside cornerback spot.
Getting the Edge: Despite absent starters Harold Landry and K’Lavon Chaisson, Thursday’s game will showcase the edge group’s top players, including Keion White, Elijah Ponder, Bradyn Swinson, and Truman Jones. This young core is vying for significant defensive roles as the regular season approaches.
The Patriots’ preseason has provided valuable insights into these groups, but Thursday’s final test will help coaches make crucial decisions ahead of cutdown day next Tuesday.
Source: https://www.patriots.com/news/three-to-watch-in-patriots-preseason-finale-vs-giants