Minutes before Friday’s preseason opener in Foxboro, one team ruled out virtually all of its starters. The other did not. That is the most critical piece of context upon reviewing the Patriots’ opening exhibition of the Mike Vrabel era,

While the preseason doesn't foretell much, Friday's game produced several positives for the Patriots, as well as a few negatives.

The unit had a big game against the Commanders with TreVeyon Henderson's 100-yard touchdown return, and veteran running back Antonio Gibson had a return for 62 yards. The blocking on both kickoffs was superb. Springer deserves a lot of credit for his unit staying disciplined and making big plays.