New England’s 20-12 win over Minnesota highlighted a stout Patriots defensive effort, with zero Vikings touchdowns and noticeably better quarterback pressure than in Week 1. TreVeyon Henderson looked like the franchise’s best skilled player among rookies, delivering a patient, decisive finish on a pair of drives that ended with a short TD and steady production early. K'Lavon Chaisson offered flashes of a breakout season, while the kicking competition between Andres Borregales and John Parker Romo added an intriguing roster wrinkle as cuts loom.

On offense, Borregales misfired from long range but bounced back with a 51-yard make, underscoring the coach's caution about roster spots for first-year specialists. Alex Austin secured a turnover that set up the Pats' offense in good field position, while Anfernee Jennings dominated up front with three sacks, signaling new life for the pass rush. Javon Baker and Efton Chism III drew attention for practice-to-game gaps, and Demontrey Jacobs offered a reminder of the depth chart battle at tackle. In a muddled roster week, the Patriots still walked away with clear positives and questions as final cuts approach.