Training Camp 2013

Really hearing everything we’d hope to hear so far after two practices. Rookie receivers are in the mix and flashing.

Brady really zeroed in on Aaron Dobson, and the two connected on at least four really nice passes, including one rep when Dobson sat between the safeties and another when he snagged a tough pass over Aqib Talib on the right sideline.

Alfonzo Dennard was back with the starting defense and had a terrific day. He intercepted a jump-ball pass down the right sideline from Ryan Mallett to Josh Boyce. It was the type of pass that would draw a pass interference penalty. Dennard also broke up a Brady pass for Dobson on the left sideline.

More observations coming in…

Among the most important developments of the day from this vantage point was having fourth-round wide receiver Josh Boyce on the field. Boyce, who was severely limited in the offseason by a foot injury, is a natural hands catcher with smooth movements and precision to his routes. That’s consistent with what we saw in his college film. Assuming his foot is 100 percent, look for him to continue to compete for reps.

For those with an interest in the intangibles: veteran safety Adrian Wilson appears to have asserted himself quickly as a leader, greeting his teammates with high-fives and support as they came to the sideline. Seems like he’ll have an impact off the field as well as on it. 

Couple of the ones that stuck out to me:

Defensive end Chandler Jones had the play of the day, diving to his right off the line to intercept Tim Tebow’s short pass to a running back toward the end of practice.

Collins got a few reps for Brandon Spikes, which could become a trend when the Patriots want to play a 4-3 in passing situations.

Wide receiver Kamar Aiken had a really solid day, catching a handful of acrobatic passes. There’s been a lot of attention focused on Thompkins as the darkhorse receiver to make the team, but don’t count out Aiken.