What happened: Wrapping up New England's mandatory minicamp, receiver Pop Douglas relayed that offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels has pinpointed a development area for him heading into 2026. Per Douglas, McDaniels wants him to be "more savvy" and not just execute what's drawn up on paper. "Go add my swagger to it … add some juice to it," Douglas said. "He believes in me and I appreciate him for that."

Why it matters: The exchange signals McDaniels is leaning on Douglas as a trusted piece in his retooled offense rather than a depth option, asking him to play faster and more instinctively. For a Patriots receiving corps still sorting out its pecking order this offseason, a coordinator publicly investing in Douglas' growth points to an expanded role in 2026.

What to watch: Watch how Douglas' usage develops once training camp opens and the Patriots install McDaniels' full offense in pads.