​Training camp for the New England Patriots is just over two weeks away, and it will bring a chance to see which players lock down the roles they currently hold and which ones push for more responsibilities. Rumors circulating this offseason about Kayshon Boutte, Christian Gonzalez’s potential contract extension, and rookie Gabe Jacas’s signing status dominated headlines up until mandatory minicamp. As the offseason gives way to summer activities, several players will be under the microscope during training camp, with a handful of rookies expected to perform at a high level at crucial positions as the team eyes 2026.
With that in mind, here are three rookies to watch during this year’s camp and how their performances could influence the Patriots as a whole. First, Will Campbell’s status as the starting left tackle could shift if his play does not show improvement from last season as we move into 2026. At the same time, Morgan Moses is approaching retirement, which will create a vacancy at right tackle sooner rather than later. If Campbell doesn’t seize the opportunity to elevate his play, Lomu could be the next man up to fill either tackle slot, serving as the primary backup and potentially earning a starting opportunity. His performance in camp, and especially during joint practices, will give New England a clear read on whether he is ready to help protect Drake Maye in the pocket and push toward becoming a top-tier offensive line.
The Patriots have yet to sign Gabe Jacas after selecting him with the 55th overall pick in this year’s draft. With a need for strong edge depth behind Harold Landry and Dre’Mont Jones next season, Jacas’s status is a critical factor to monitor. In his absence, Hutchins becomes the next man up. Hutchins notched two sacks and 3.5 tackles for loss at Boston College in 2025. He has had some legal trouble this offseason, but game time during camp could allow him to leave a lasting impression on the coaching staff and carve out a meaningful share of snaps next season, even though the team already has capable veteran backups such as Elijah Ponder, Bradyn Swinson, and Jesse Luketa in the mix.
New England’s outside corner duo of Christian Gonzalez and Carlton Davis III is strong, but the Patriots will need reliable depth behind them whenever required. Prunty has the chance to establish himself as the primary backup in training camp if he performs well in the sessions and displays the needed versatility to contribute in various packages. He is currently listed behind Gonzalez in the Patriots’ depth chart for next season, but a standout camp showing could tilt the rotation and secure him a larger role in 2026.
As training camp unfolds, all eyes will be on these rookies and their ability to step into meaningful roles. Their performances will help determine the early trajectory for the Patriots’ offense and defense, guiding coaching decisions as the team prepares for the challenging season ahead. Stay connected with Patriots Wire for ongoing coverage from camp and updates from the team as the summer progresses. This article originally appeared on Patriots Wire: 3 rookies to watch at Patriots training camp in 2026 for better SEO.