The New England Patriots concluded their training camp on Friday with a low-tempo practice aimed at simulating a game week environment before their preseason finale. While the practice did not yield significant takeaways, it set the stage for the impending roster cuts and the team's upcoming game on Sunday night.

A few players were limited in Friday's practice, including tight end Mitchell Wilcox, linebacker Oshane Ximines, and defensive end Deatrich Wise, who was a new addition to the limited section. Meanwhile, linebacker Joshua Uche, offensive tackle Vederian Lowe, tight end Hunter Henry, linebacker/safety Marte Mapu, and offensive tackle Calvin Anderson did not participate in the practice session.

There were no major surprises among the absent players on Friday, with Mikey Victor being the only new addition following his early departure from Thursday's session. As for Sunday's game, Jerod Mayo, the Patriots' coach, stated that everyone, except for a few veterans nursing minor injuries, will be playing.

One positive development during practice was the performance of the offensive line, especially considering Vederian Lowe's absence. The team used the same offensive line combination for the second consecutive day, with Mike Onwenu at right tackle, Chuks Okorafor at left tackle, and rookie Layden Robinson at right guard. Mayo expressed his satisfaction with the group's performance and highlighted the benefit of placing a rookie between two experienced veterans.

Jacoby Brissett continued to take the lead in all periods of Friday's practice, indicating that he will start in Sunday night's game, according to Mayo. However, the three quarterbacks behind him are also expected to see action. Rookie Drake Maye is likely to play with the top offensive line group based on his reps in practice.

In a surprising turn of events, Nick Leverett took on an increased role during Friday's practice. He not only substituted for veteran David Andrews but also spent some time in the backfield as a fullback. Leverett showcased his versatility when he caught a touchdown pass from Maye and celebrated with an impressive spike. Tight end Austin Hooper praised Leverett's natural ability to catch the football.

The backup tight ends also had an increased involvement during Friday's session, with undrafted free agent Jacob Warren leading the way with several receptions in red area work. Jaheim Bell and La'Michael Pettway were also actively involved, with Pettway catching a remarkable back-corner pass from Maye in the end zone. With Mitchell Wilcox and Hunter Henry still sidelined, the performance of the backup tight ends during the preseason finale will play a crucial role in determining the final roster.

With training camp wrapped up, the Patriots are now gearing up for their preseason finale against the Commanders on Sunday night. Following the game, they will have until 4 p.m. ET on Tuesday to cut their roster down to 53 players. As the regular season approaches, the coaching staff will diligently evaluate the players' performances to shape the final squad that will represent the New England Patriots in the upcoming season.