Patriots prepare to get through the dog days of practice

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Getting back in the swing of things isn’t always easy. It takes hard work, dedication and determination. And the New England Patriots are trying to focus and “grind it out” in the dog days of practice.

While practicing in full pads for days in a row and taking on the heat and humidity that August brings, it can put a little wear and tear on a person. That’s why at the end of Wednesday’s practice, it was noted that several players looked gassed and banged up, including Matthew Slater, Chris Hogan and Julian Edelman.

“Today was a grind,” said tight end Rob Gronkowski. “Super humid out. It’s getting through the dog days because we just have to keep pushing on through camp.”

In addition to Slater, Hogan and Edelman, ten other Patriots players – including Mike Gillislee, Cody Hollister, Malcolm Mitchell and more – weren’t fully cleared to practice on Wednesday. This is a strong sign that at this time of year, teams and personnel have to find that perfect balance between staying on top of conditioning and knowing when to pull back a bit.

Bill Belichick and company will work on finding that stability and balance, while maintaining their focus on the work that’s left to do.

The team will practice today and Saturday before resting up on Sunday. Then the Jacksonville Jaguars are in town for joint practices Monday and Tuesday.

The Jaguars and Patriots play Thursday, August 10 at 7:30 pm.

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