FOXBOROUGH, Mass. -- Quick-hit thoughts and notes around the New England Patriots and NFL:
1. Rookie report: Of the headline-making themes through the first nine practices of Patriots training camp is the certainty that rookies will be playing major roles.
With that comes promise for the Patriots that they've potentially rebuilt the left side of their offensive line, found a dynamic third-down running back, deep-threat receiver, a strong-legged kicker and reliable snapper.
At the same time, the next rookie who doesn't experience growing pains across the NFL will be the first, so the Patriots will be balancing promise with patience.