Day 1 of Patriots-Vikings joint practices offered a clear signal on the fantasy angles surrounding New England’s offense. Drake Maye flashed his arm talent and poise under Brian Flores’ aggressive scheme, capping a two-minute drill with a 70-yard wheel route connection to rookie TreVeyon Henderson that looked like a real starter’s moment. The play underscored Maye’s ability to improvise and deliver when pressure mounts, a hopeful sign for dynasty leagues that he could push for early-season reps if continued in this format.

Beyond Maye, the Patriots’ WR room remains a weather vane. Efton Chism and Javon Baker are duking it out for the last roster spot, while rookies Will Campbell and Jared Wilson endured a rough day up front, with Maye absorbing several sacks and the tackles flagged for pass protection lapses. Josh Dobbs carved out a rough day with multiple turnovers, emphasizing the need for clean ball security. The kicking competition heated, with Andy Borregales going 5-for-6 and John Parker Romo pressing for separation after the draft pick investment. Absences like Christian Gonzalez and Marte Mapu will shape next week’s allocation, but the day’s big takeaway is Maye’s upside and Henderson’s likely role, should the rookie backfield production carry over to game temps across the next two joint sessions.

Marte Mapu, drafted by the New England Patriots as a third-round pick, has officially transitioned from safety to linebacker. This shift is a strategic move to help him find a more defined role within the team. After a challenging season where he missed seven games due to injury, Mapu demonstrated his potential by starting nine games and recording impressive stats: 46 tackles, three forced fumbles, six pass deflections, and one interception. The Patriots believe this position change will better utilize his versatile skill set and enhance the defense.

Kendall Fuller is the only player ruled out for the Miami Dolphins ahead of their Week 12 game against the New England Patriots due to a concussion. Four other Dolphins players, including Terron Armstead and Alec Ingold, are questionable for the matchup.

On the Patriots' side, cornerback Christian Gonzalez has emerged as questionable with a shoulder injury, while DT Jaquelin Roy has been ruled out. Nine other Patriots players are also listed as questionable, showcasing a challenging injury situation for both teams.

The New England Patriots are gearing up to face the Los Angeles Rams in Week 12 of the NFL season, looking to build on their recent victory over the Chicago Bears. With a current record of 3-7, the team is aiming for a second consecutive win, despite mixed feelings among fans regarding the potential benefits of losing for draft positioning.

Head coach Jerod Mayo is focused on player development, though the Patriots will be missing seven players for the game. However, the return of defensive lineman Christian Barmore and the activation of veteran pass-rusher Yannick Ngakoue provide a boost to the team's prospects.

The Los Angeles Rams are facing ongoing challenges with their offensive line as they prepare to take on the New England Patriots. Right tackle Rob Havenstein will miss his second straight game due to an ankle injury, and Joe Noteboom is doubtful, leading to Warren McClendon Jr. likely starting at right tackle.

Coach Sean McVay has yet to confirm McClendon's starting role, but Noteboom's absence from practice raises concerns. The Rams are looking to bounce back after a disappointing loss to the Miami Dolphins, where the offensive line struggled significantly, contributing to quarterback Matthew Stafford being sacked four times.

With the potential for further lineup changes, the Rams are also managing injuries to tight end Tyler Higbee and safety John Johnson III, while the Patriots are dealing with multiple questionable players ahead of the matchup.