Stat Check: Going over the Patriots' numbers so far and what they might mean

When possible, we like to quantify as much as we can during the course of our evaluations of the Patriots — to a point. We think stats such as 1-on-1s, competitive passing, drops, fumbles, pass breakups and interceptions are all valuable for one reason or another. Others, such as pass completed on an individual defensive back is way too subjective even in the season, let alone training camp practice.

With that in mind, here's a look at the Patriots' numbers so far and a few follow-up thoughts on each:

OFFENSIVE LINE 1-on-1s

[table id=304 /]

Not a surprise that Joe Thuney is on top, especially after he finished second to Trent Brown a year ago. It was then that Thuney signaled he was about to take another step and, indeed, he did. He might have been the Patriots' best all-around offensive lineman last year.

Of course, it's significant who hasn't taken a rep yet: Isaiah Wynn, David Andrews and Yodny Cajuste. Wynn and Cajuste need to get on the field and get real reps. They have much to learn/experience. Of course, yes, they need to be careful with Wynn.

James Ferentz's strong start is interesting. One of the things I've learned about covering this team, when you're not there and Bill Belichick gets a long look at life without you, your chances of being jettisoned are increased. I'm not saying Andrews is in danger or anything, but it's something to keep in mind.

Ted Karras really needs to get going. His roster spot is always in jeopardy, especially after the Patriots spent two good picks on a guard (Hjalte Froholdt, Cajuste).

Speaking of Froholdt ... he's been the most disappointing to me and he's not threatening anyone's starting spot yet. But a better showing starting this week might start to.

DEFENSIVE 1-on-1s

[table id=305 /]

I'll admit that there aren't a whole lot of stats here, but Michael Bennett's one-day performance showed the bottom line: with pass rush, you either have it or you don't.

Danny Shelton was a stud last year as well ... and you know what that got him. Sure, the guy is a good interior pass rusher, but the Patriots don't really care if you can rush as a nose tackle. They'll bring other guys in for subpackages. That's why I don't care about Mike Pennell.

Trent Harris was also strong last year. The guy knows how to play.

We've already given Derek Rivers his due. I'd also keep an eye on Nick Thurman, a big and strong interior guy. He's been good.

Ofomba Kamalu (0-5) ... more like Ooofa Kamalu.

It's significant to me that guys like Donta' Hightower (especially) and Jamie Collins have yet to take any reps while Kyle Van Noy has. We'll see if that changes. Or are they just inside players now?

QUARTERBACKS

[table id=306 /]

At this point, I don't have a whole lot to say. Tom Brady's workload has been fine to this point. He got off to a slow start on the first day, which wasn't unexpected. Brian Hoyer has been decent. Jarrett Stidham is a work in progress. Pretty much as expected.

OFFENSIVE WEAPONS

[table id=307 /]

Early for this and nothing really stands out. I will say the hands have been good so far. Wouldn't say the ball has been on the ground a lot. That's a good sign.

DEFENSE

[table id=308 /]

Wish we had some more data because of how competitive this entire group is, from the linebackers to the cornerbacks and safeties.

The young CBs, J.C. Jackson and Keion Crossen, are not going away. They are confident, they are brash and they are good.

Duke Dawson's pick has been his highlight of camp. He hasn't threatened Jonathan Jones yet.

You'll notice that Joejuan Williams' name is not on either list. It's representative of where he is right now.

Surprising that Jamie Collins isn't on either list. That's part of the reason why I named him one of my disappointments so far. Have yet to see him make a play, but he's doing a nice job in the pass rush. He's not a bust or anything. I just have high expectations for him.

Keep an eye on Terrence Brooks.