Marco Wilson/Alex Austin – The battle for the outside cornerback position between Wilson and Austin continues. Both are getting high-level rotation play as the team manages veteran Jonathan Jones, but there is no clear frontrunner in the position battle. This final preseason game could be the most important time of the summer for the two players, though it’s not hard to imagine both making the team and continuing to compete in the regular season. Jonathan Jones and Christian Gonzalez are set as starters, while Marcus Jones has returned to his spot in the slot. But the depth battles continue, even with Shaun Wade limited by injuries, Isaiah Bolden and rookie Marcellas Dial playing a few times in the slot this week. It’s hard to say how this all plays out.
Kobe Jones/Christian McCarroll – Due to injuries at the outside position, the Patriots signed these two free agents off the street. It’s a tough situation, but for two players looking to live out their dream of playing in the NFL, it’s an incredible opportunity. McCarroll got a big hit in his first practice on Wednesday and was cheered on by his new teammates. Although they’ve only played three practices, Jones and McCarroll should play a lot in the second half of the game. Perhaps their direct path to the roster will be to show explosiveness as a pass rusher. McCarroll had 16 sacks in his career at Judon’s alma mater Grand Valley State and was a universally recognized All-American.
Joe Milton – Based on this week’s workouts, Milton and Bailey Zappe should see more action than they have since the first week of preseason. Milton continues to shine but struggles with inconsistency. His throw to new receiver Matt Landers on Wednesday was another big laser play. Milton’s size and arm talent are entertaining to watch, it’s clear why testing him as he developed was worth it. Now, like with Maye, the final preseason game is one last chance to show fans the progress he made over the summer.
