Whether you think anyone is talking about the Patriots or not, there’s no denying that Bill Belichick has run his most intense training camp in years.
Out of 17 practices, 12 have been in full pads, far more than usual for the team.
So on this, their ninth day of camp, Belichick gave the team a break. He canceled their afternoon session and the team has a scheduled day off Saturday.
“I haven’t had this many double-sessions since college,” joked center Dan Koppen Friday.
Despite all the work, the major themes of Patriots camp haven’t created many headlines.
Tom Brady is healthy enough to practice without a brace occasionally, while his backup Kevin O’ Connell may not be developing as quickly as hoped. The tight competition at tight end, cornerback, and running back for playing time hasn’t decided much yet.
The Patriots will get back to the regular two-a-days on Sunday. By that point, Derrick Burgess could be in uniform.
Mike Reiss of the Boston Globe reports Burgess is en route to Foxborough for a physical.
