New England Patriots: 5 intriguing storylines entering 2019 NFL preseason

With NFL training camp underway, here are 5 intriguing storylines to watch as the New England Patriots inch closer to their 2019 preseason schedule.

It’s seems like just weeks ago the New England Patriots raised the Vince Lombardi Trophy after capturing their sixth Super Bowl victory in nine appearances.

The 13-3 victory over the Los Angeles Rams was not only an impressive victory, but one that symbolized the next transition for the team.

With Rob Gronkowski retiring in the months to follow, the new emphasis for the team appears to be surrounding a power running game and elite defense.  Both the 2019 NFL Draft and free agency seemed to support that approach.

Aside from drafting wide receiver N’Keal Harry in the first round, the team went defense in the second round by drafting cornerback JoeJuan Willams and defensive end Chase Winovich in the third round.  They also took Alabama running back Damien Harris in the third round further indicating the team’s transition from relying solely on the arm of 42-year-old quarterback Tom Brady.

While all of those young players are expected to contribute, they also added veterans like defensive end Michael Bennett, defensive tackle Mike Pennel, linebacker Jamie Collins, wide receiver Demaryius Thomas and veteran tight ends Ben Watson and Matt LaCosse to the mix.

Overall, an intriguing mix of young and veteran players that will create some interesting storylines throughout the preseason.  Here are 5 of those storylines that will intrigue New England Patriots fans prior to the 2019 NFL regular season.