Patriots Training Camp News, Notes, Updates: Day One

The New England Patriots kicked off their training camp with a two hour practice session this morning held in shorts, helmets, and shells. Here are five notes from around the web on the opening session:

1. Patriots rookie receiver Aaron Dobson was running with the top unit today on offense and supposedly looked very impressive. Ben Volin of the Boston Globe noted that quarterback Tom Brady spent a lot of time working with Dobson in addition to Danny Amendola, and Kamar Aiken. Fellow rookie receiver Josh Boyce also had some first unit reps. The development of these rookie receivers looks like an early key to the Patriots success on offense in 2013, and these two have made the early steps to becoming contributors.

2. The Patriots are expecting a lot from second year defensive end Chandler Jones. Jeff Howe of the Boston Herald writes that he stole the show with a diving interception on a pass from Tim Tebow intended for a running back that Howe called the “play of the day.” Tebow, by the way, struggled according to reports. Jones’ interception was one of two in brief 11 on 11 work.

3. There could be a wrinkle along the offensive line this year, as third year guard Marcus Cannon saw most of the reps with the first team at right guard ahead of Dan Connolly. Brian Lowe of Patriots.com believes Cannon to have the early edge at the position.

4. ESPN Boston outlined the attendance report for the Patriots practice. The only players not spotted were Armond Armstead and Rob Gronkowski. Meanwhile, Julian Edelman, Kenbrell Thompkins, Mark Harrison, and Nick McDonald did not participate.

5. Field Yates of ESPN Boston highlighted how Kyle Arrington saw some time opposite Aqib Talib in the Patriots’ team defense. Based off 2012 performance, this wrinkle comes as a surprise and will be something to monitor further in camp.