What happened: Patriots coach Mike Vrabel said DeAndre Hopkins is at training camp to explore the idea of coaching or scouting, not to compete for a roster spot. Vrabel, who had Hopkins in Tennessee in 2023, said Hopkins has coaching gear on and is helping out the offensive coaches.

Why it matters: A five time Pro Bowler trading pads for a headset at camp is about as clear a signal as it gets that his playing career is winding down, even without a formal retirement announcement. That's a real debate for a Patriots offense still working through questions at receiver, whether Hopkins belongs on the sideline now or could still help a roster on the field.