Biggest storylines & under-the-radar players heading into Patriots training camp

Phil Perry is back with the Next Pats Podcast. With Patriots training camp just two days away, Phil breaks down the biggest storylines to watch heading into the 2026 season. Christian Gonzalez's contract talks appear to have stalled, prompting Phil to examine what's behind the holdup and whether the star cornerback could hold out during training camp. Meanwhile, second-round pick Gabe Jacas remains unsigned. Is the rookie trending toward a redshirt season in Year 1? Phil also highlights several under-the-radar players who could make an impact this season. 0:00 Intro 2:21 Christian Gonzalez’ contract situation 5:41 Gabe Jacas remains unsigned 11:41 Patriots leveling up offense: Letting Drake Maye take control 17:09 Patriots leveling up offense: Using different schemes 24:54 Under-the-radar players: Craig Woodson 28:32 Under-the-radar players: Elijah Ponder 29:44 Under-the-radar players: Marcellas Dial 31:19 Under-the-radar players: Alijah Vera-Tucker 34:34 Under-the-radar players: Eli Raridon 36:35 Super deep sleepers for Patriots +++++++ FOLLOW ➡️ NBC Sports Boston ➡️ Site | Instagram | YouTube | TikTok | Facebook | X Subscribe to our other podcasts: Tom Curran's Patriots Talk Podcast The Next Pats Podcast with Phil Perry Celtics Talk with Chris Forsberg The Quick Snap with Brian Hoyer and David Andrews NBC Sports Boston Superfeed - One feed for all NBCSB shows + bonus clips Foxboro Unlimited - One feed for all Patriots related NBCSB shows + bonus clips Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.