3 Patriots Players to Keep Tabs on During Preseason Week 1 Matchup With Lions

The New England Patriots will start their run towards Super Bowl No. 7 with a preseason matchup against Matt Patricia and the Detroit Lions. While the core of this team is largely set in stone, these three players are currently looking to prove themselves, and it will be interesting to see if they shine or flop in their first action of 2019.

3. QB Jarrett Stidham

Stidham raised some eyebrows when he was selected in the fourth round of the 2019 NFL draft. While his arm strength and mobility stand out, his accuracy is scattershot to say the least and he largely underwhelmed at Auburn. Yes, Tom Brady is still Tom Brady, but the Patriots need their backup quarterback spot solidified, and Stidham will have every chance to leapfrog Brian Hoyer and become QB2.

2. WR N'Keal Harry

Bill Belichick rarely burns a first round pick on a skill position player, especially a wide receiver, so New England is heavily invested in Harry. A 6-3, 220-pound monster on the outside, Harry's greatest skill is his slippery running style that made him so dangerous as a runner at Arizona State. Still, the Patriots value separation more than any other trait among their receivers, and that was Harry's biggest question mark in college. It's time to see if he's adjusted his game.

1. OT Isaiah Wynn

Wynn was selected in the first round after dominating the best in the SEC at Georgia. However, his rookie season was ended prematurely with a torn Achilles. With Trent Brown in Oakland, Wynn is being counted on to stabilize their offensive line at a tackle spot. If Wynn can stay healthy, his natural talent plus a little Dante Scarnecchia magic could make him into a Pro Bowl talent.