3 Patriots Who Earned a Roster Spot in Preseason Week 1

The long wait is over and NFL football is here. In the first official preseason game of the year, the New England Patriots took the field against the Carolina Panthers, taking care of business, securing a 17-3 win on the back of a strong defensive showing.

It's always important to not overreact to a preseason game. These games are more for players on the fringes making a case for themselves to lock down a roster spot or a rotation role. It's great to see when a young player exceeds expectations but we have seen preseason success not translate to NFL success many times before.

At the same time, there were a couple of standout performances on Thursday night that deserve praise. A few players lower on the pecking order may have played themselves into a roster spot against the Panthers. Let's take a look.

QB Joe Milton III

The analysis of the Panthers game should start with Joe Milton. The sixth-round pick was the best offensive player for New England for the game, quickly turning himself into a fan favorite. He only played in the second half, so let's not overreact here but it's safe to say that he exceeded expectations.

Milton is still behind Drake Maye and Jacoby Brissett in the hierarchy but he likely surpassed Bailey Zappe after he received praise from head coach Jerod Mayo. If he sustains the level of accuracy and composure he showed on Thursday, he should be a part of the 53-man roster. Milton Magic is here and we can't wait to enjoy the ride.