The first two weeks of New England Patriots training camp are in the books, and they have been eventful. The team of new head coach Mike Vrabel held nine total practices, including four sessions in pads. Along the way, the proverbial cream has began rising to the top: the picture is far clearer now than it was at the start of camp.

The week of the Patriots’ first preseason game is here. On Friday, New England takes on Washington at Gillette Stadium, and the Commanders will be in town on Wednesday for a joint practice.