The Patriots turned in one final walk-through before the preseason finale, still in helmets and shoulder pads as competition remained fierce. Christian Barmore and Milton Williams anchored a disruptive interior that flashed the disruptive edge the team hoped to unlock this season. Drake Maye endured pressure from a stout front as pass protection continued to be a concern, with Ben Brown plugged into guard/center spots to stabilize the line. Keion White started hot but drifted to the second unit, while Robert Spillane piled up sacks and Jabrill Peppers added a sack as Terrell Williams leaned on blitzing from safety and corner. The kicking race between Andy Borregales and Parker Romo remained a coin flip, both thriving in a tight battle. Offense touched the ball as well with Henry, Hollins, Diggs, and Dobbs all contributing. A game plan rehearsal looms as New England heads to East Rutherford for the final tune-up.

Pass protection remained a narrative thread. Barmore and Williams consistently found disruption in the backfield, challenging Drake Maye and keeping the offensive line under pressure. Will Campbell and the rest of the line showed flashes, but the unit’s ability to keep Maye clean will be critical for the preseason and beyond. On defense, Spillane’s two-sack day followed a previous interception spree, signaling a potential high-volume role in the regular season. Peppers leveraged blitz opportunities, hinting at a more aggressive use of safeties in coverage and pressure packages. In the kicking duel, Borregales and Romo split the 4-for-4 mark, underscoring how evenly matched the competition remains as the roster edges toward Week 1 considerations.

Deebo Samuel, the newly acquired wide receiver for the Washington Commanders, is generating significant buzz this offseason. Critics speculate about his physical condition and performance potential as he enters the final year of his contract. However, Samuel is demonstrating his commitment, arriving in excellent shape and participating eagerly in all offseason activities. His motivation appears fueled by the prospect of securing a new deal, whether with the Commanders or elsewhere.

Samuel has developed a newfound respect for teammates, particularly Noah B. His adaptability and leadership could be crucial for the Commanders as they aim to elevate their offensive strategy and integrate Samuel effectively into their system. As a dynamic playmaker, Samuel's performance this season will be pivotal for both his career trajectory and the team's success.

Kliff Kingsbury, the former head coach of the Arizona Cardinals, is poised to be a top candidate for head coaching positions in the NFL by 2026. Kingsbury's unexpected rise included a four-season tenure with the Cardinals where he managed a 28-37-1 record, culminating in a playoff appearance. However, his collaboration with quarterback Kyler Murray was fraught with disconnect, leading to his departure. As of 2023, Kingsbury has returned to college football, leaving the door open for future NFL opportunities. This trajectory highlights the evolving landscape of coaching, where previous failures can lead to renewed chances.

Daron Payne, the Washington Commanders' veteran defensive lineman, is set to tackle a unique challenge this season. After a breakout year in 2022 and receiving a lucrative contract extension, Payne now faces his first season as the team's senior defensive lineman without his longtime teammate, Jonathan Allen, who was released earlier this offseason due to salary cap constraints. As the most experienced player on the defensive front, along with punter Tress Way, Payne has taken on a leadership role, a transition that defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr. and head coach Dan Quinn both acknowledge.

Payne's performance has fluctuated since signing his extension, and his new responsibilities may influence his game both positively and negatively. His ability to adapt and lead the defensive line could be crucial for the Commanders this season. Without Allen, Payne's effectiveness as a leader and player will be put to the test as he looks to maintain his production while shepherding younger teammates.

As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, the future of Shedeur Sanders, Colorado's standout quarterback, remains uncertain. With potential to be a top-three pick, he could also drop past the top ten. The Pittsburgh Steelers, picking at 21, have shown interest, with coach Mike Tomlin reportedly being a fan. Sanders, who visited the Steelers recently, expressed admiration for both the team and Tomlin's coaching style. However, moving up to secure Sanders may prove challenging, especially if other teams, like the New York Giants, make early selections.

If Sanders slips past the top ten, the Steelers may capitalize, as their immediate competition for a quarterback in the draft is limited. Drawing parallels to the 2004 draft, where the Steelers successfully selected Ben Roethlisberger, they hope for a similar outcome with Sanders. Yet, the possibility of acquiring a veteran quarterback like Aaron Rodgers remains a wild card, complicating their draft strategy.