FOXBORO — Before Wednesday’s joint practice with the Commanders, Mike Vrabel declined to look ahead to Friday’s preseason opener — and then did anyway.
Asked how much Drake Maye and the Patriots’ starters will play, Vrabel said he expects the majority of the Patriots’ healthy players to suit up against Washington
“Again, (we’re) focused on today and they’ll get a lot of reps today, different situations. And again, I would say most everybody that’s healthy should expect to play in the game. How long they’ll play, I don’t know,” Vrabel said. “But we have to prepare to play in football games and prepare to win football games. So, that’s the mentality that we’re going to take.”
On Wednesday, the non-participants were cornerback Christian Gonzalez, wide receiver Kendrick Bourne, edge rusher K’Lavon Chaisson, linebacker Jahlani Tavai and offensive lineman Caedan Wallace. Wide receiver Stefon Diggs and right tackle Morgan Moses were limited, with Diggs arriving late to participate in some team periods and Moses departing after initial stretching.
Vrabel acknowledged the team is managing the 34-year-old’s workload and a minor injury.
“Just want to be smart and make sure that everybody’s plan is the best one for them to be prepared for the season,” Vrabel said. “So, Morgan will do a little bit today, won’t do much, and then we’ll see where he is at the next opportunity, which would be Friday.”
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