Nelson Agholor, Jonnu Smith Impressing at Patriots Training Camp

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. — There are similarities to the past here, but many more differences. Believe it or, there are just, by my count, 12 Patriots left who’ve won rings in New England. The offensive and defensive play-callers from the last title team are gone, too. And what’s left? A team that should provide a good litmus test for the program’s post–Tom Brady staying power.

1) Nelson Agholor and Jonnu Smith have built on strong springs in camp, and each looks more comfortable in an offensive scheme that’s been streamlined and simplified. Both guys are interesting in that you might have to do different things to highlight their strengths, but those sorts of adjustments have been made as the new offense has been shaped by Bill Belichick, Matt Patricia and Joe Judge.

Agholor had 473 receiving yards and three touchdowns last season for the Patriots. He may have a bigger role this year.

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