FOXBORO, Mass.- Several New England Patriots players were absent from the team’s final practice, adding their rookie quarterback.
Cam Newton appeared on the cover of a long list of players absent from Monday’s padded practice, most of whom were closed to journalists.
It’s the first absence of the summer for Newton, who appeared to be one step ahead of would-be quarterback Jarrett Stidham and Brian Hoyer in educational camp.
Newton excused himself from the practice, according to reports of Jeff Howe of The Athletic and Mike Reiss of ESPN.
Although Newton has won most of the quarterbacks since the start of the camp, head coach Bill Belichick refused Monday morning to officially call an initial player.
“When we’re in a position to do that,” Belichick said in a pre-practice video conference, “we will.”
Offensive end Damien Harris, middle David Andrews, Isaiah Wynn’s left shot, defenders Beau Allen and Michael Barnett and cornerback Michael Jackson were also absent Monday.
Andrews and Wynn start as offensive linemen. Harris seems willing to play a role in the New England backfield after playing in moderation as a rookie.
Speaking of the Patriots backfield, veteran offensive lineman Lamar Miller first trained on Monday, indicating that he was removed from the asset list/physically unable to perform.
Miller, in his first season with the Patriots, will recover from a torn anterior cruciate ligament that ended his 2019 campaign.New England also activated Sony’s offensive share of PUP last week.
Other notes:
– Security Devin McCourty and Adrian Phillips were limited participants in the brief component of the practice that was open to the media.
– External supporter Chase Winovich returned after missing both sessions.
– Catcher Jakobi Meyers (shoulder) continued in a contactless red jersey.
The Patriots will have to reduce their roster from 80 to 53 players until 4 p.m. and Saturday.