Typically, Day 1 of training centers around the players: How are the new additions meshing? Do any of the carryovers from the previous year's squad look primed for a breakout? Stuff like that. However, as the Patriots opened up the 2022 camp, one of the notable nuggets of the day revolved around who was pulling the strings, particularly on offense.
The offensive play-caller spot has been a central focus all offseason and intrigue has only grown with Bill Belichick not naming an offensive coordinator. Coming into camp, there was some question as to whether it'd be senior football advisor Matt Patricia or offensive assistant/quarterbacks coach Joe Judge.
Of course, given where we are on the football calendar, things could swing in a different direction entirely by the time Week 1 rolls around. That said, from what we saw on Day 1 of camp, it looks like Patricia holds that responsibility, while the title remains on the sideline.
During competitive drills, Patricia could be seen either speaking into a walkie-talkie seemingly calling plays into quarterback Mac Jones' helmet, or was physically inside the huddle. Meanwhile, Joe Judge worked primarily with the quarterback group as Bill Belichick loomed over and had his hands in the entire offensive operation.