The New England Patriots are gearing up for their final game before the regular season kicks off Sept. 7 against the Las Vegas Raiders. It will also serve as the last chance for players to make their case ahead of the final 53-player roster cut on Aug. 26.
In the first two preseason matchups, starters saw the field for at least a few snaps to build game rhythm, but that may not be the case in the third preseason game. Here’s a look at which players are expected to take the field and Patriots coach Mike Vrabel’s strategy against the New York Giants.
Will Drake Maye and Other Starters Play in Patriots’ Last Preseason Game?
The Patriots had one of the best offseasons of 2025, adding significant value to the team with targeted moves to address last season’s weaknesses. Milton Williams joined the defensive line, Will Campbell was drafted to protect Drake Maye, and Stefon Diggs was signed as his reliable target.
Vrabel’s arrival also signals a new era for the Patriots, with a culture distinct from Jerod Mayo’s 2024 approach and a clear move beyond the Bill Belichick cycle. The results have been evident in the first preseason games, with strong wins and a more physical, focused performance from the players.
Opinion/analysis: The way practice ended, with starting players running sprints, and backups going through situational work, could be a tipoff to how Mike Vrabel will approach preseason finale Thursday. Probably unusual to be pushing starters like that if they were going to play.
— Mike Reiss (@MikeReiss) August 19, 2025
In the first two games, starters such as Maye saw the field for a few snaps, but they may be rested for the final preseason matchup, as indicated by Vrabel’s last practice on Tuesday. The coach had the starters do sprints at the end of practice, while backups focused on more game drills, signaling his approach for Thursday.
If that decision holds, Joshua Dobbs and the second- and third-string players will see more action, while starters rest ahead of Week 1. There is still a chance one or two starters may get a few snaps, but it would be a surprise.
What To Look For in the Patriots’ Game Against the Giants
One key player to watch is safety Kyle Dugger. He has been losing his role with the team during this new cycle and may not even open the season as a backup safety. Dugger signed a new contract last offseason and is looking to regain the coaches’ trust.
Another player to watch is Cole Strange at center. He has lost ground on the roster but could provide depth on the interior offensive line. Offensive line depth has been a major concern in recent years, and teams are expected to keep investing in the position.
Drake Maye looks, scrambles, and scores!
Stream WASvsNE on @NFLPlus pic.twitter.com/nzPnvDKdHD
— NFL (@NFL) August 8, 2025
One of the players who impressed the most against the Minnesota Vikings was wide receiver Efton Chism, who finished with six catches for 71 yards. He made a strong case to earn early snaps in the slot.
The game will take place at MetLife Stadium at 8 p.m. ET Thursday and will be broadcast on Prime Video.
