The Patriots’ opener against Seattle gave fans plenty to groan about, from a second-half collapse to Drake Maye’s three fourth-quarter interceptions. But tucked inside the 13-10 loss was one thing New England could actually feel good about: the 2026 rookie class showed some real life.
Not every newcomer got the chance to make an impression. Caleb Lomu was active, but the first-round tackle didn’t take a snap on offense and only saw a couple of reps in the kicking game. He looks headed for a season spent mostly on the sideline unless garbage time or an injury opens the door at tackle.
Dametrious Crownover, a sixth-round pick, had an even quieter night. He played just two snaps, both on special teams, and remains a depth option on the offensive line. Morton was inactive as the team’s emergency QB3.
Karon Prunty’s start was rougher still. The fifth-round corner was a healthy scratch, with New England choosing to use Jaylen Reed - acquired in the Kayshon Boutte trade last month - strictly on special teams instead. For a player some already viewed as a reach, that’s not the kind of first-week update you want to see.
But the Patriots did get two rookie performances that stood out in the right way.
Gabe Jacas wasted no time making noise in his debut. Limited to a rotational role after missing much of the offseason program, the edge rusher still managed a sack in just 19 defensive snaps.
He also held up well against the run, finishing with three stuffs, per Pro Football Focus. Elijah Ponder opened the game opposite Dre’Mont Jones, but that setup could change quickly if Jacas keeps flashing like this.
Verdict: Stock up.
Eli Raridon joined him in the positive column. The tight end worked as New England’s clear No. 2 at the position in heavier packages and turned his first career red zone target into a touchdown.
He still has work to do as an in-line blocker, but he was in the right spots, avoided penalties, and handled 38 offensive snaps without issue. Verdict: Stock up.
Namdi Obiazor also gave the Patriots something to build on. The sixth-round linebacker, drafted for his special teams value, played all 20 special teams snaps and led the team with three tackles.
Two were solo stops, and Pro Football Focus gave him an 82.5, the best mark on either team by a wide margin. That’s a strong way to start carving out a role.
Hutchins, the No. 247 pick, was active but didn’t play on defense and logged three tackleless special teams snaps.
For a team that left Week 1 with far more questions than answers, the rookie class at least offered a small but real silver lining.
In Other News...
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His first chance to suit up comes against the Steelers, where New England is looking for more help and more stability in the middle of the line. The addition does mean a corresponding roster move is coming, so the Patriots are not only adding depth, but also making a calculated choice about who stays put to make room for it. [Read more 🡒]