New England Patriots

Cam Newton lines up in the shotgun on Day 1 of Patriots minicamp 2021

It was a busy day in Foxborough for the Patriots’ first minicamp practice. Monday saw the return of a number of key players who had missed or skipped OTAs, while those not in attendance made headlines as well.

We’ll start – as we did for most of OTAs – with the quarterbacks. Cam Newton participated in his first public practice since injuring his hand two weeks ago and suffering a reported bone bruise. Upon his return, Newton resumed his role as the team’s primary quarterback, leading the way through team drills. 

While Newton missed throws at times, he wasn’t any more erratic than the Patriots’ other three quarterbacks on the day, with all four struggling with the heavy rain that fell for the majority of practice.

Despite dealing with the rain, rookie Mac Jones had another solid day. As Jones himself admitted last week, he still has a lot of learning ahead of him, about both the Patriots’ offense and playing football at an NFL level. 

As that learning process continues, Jones’ development is apparent. He’s already throwing the ball with more conviction, seems to have a better sense of passing windows, and is utilizing more pump fakes. At this time of year, nothing is more important than progress, and Jones is making progress.

MORE: Recapping Monday’s minicamp practice with Zolak & Bertrand

Click here for 98.5 The Sports Hub’s complete coverage of the Patriots.

Alex Barth is a writer and digital producer for 985TheSportsHub.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of 98.5 The Sports Hub, Beasley Media Group, or any subsidiaries. Thoughts? Comments? Questions? Looking for a podcast guest? Let him know on Twitter @RealAlexBarth or via email at abarth@985TheSportsHub.com.

Sign me up for the 98.5 The Sports Hub email newsletter!

Get the latest Boston sports news and analysis, plus exclusive on-demand content and special giveaways from Boston's Home for Sports, 98.5 The Sports Hub.

*
*
By clicking "Subscribe" I agree to the website's terms of Service and Privacy Policy. I understand I can unsubscribe at any time.