Smith-Schuster signed a three-year, $25.5 million contract with $16 million guaranteed with the Patriots last offseason, but was buried on the depth chart.

Drake Maye looks good –  but only for one series  – while Joe Milton III, Jeremiah Pharms Jr. and the front seven step up for New England.

Apparently Aiyuk did not want to play for New England, saying no to a trade, and the Patriots are left with their middle-of-the-road group of receivers.

New England is rumored to have the framework in place to make a trade to acquire 49ers receiver Brandon Aiyuk … but so does Cleveland.

The linebacker is seeking a new deal, but he doesn’t have much leverage, and New England knows it.

With veteran Jacoby Brissett and first-round draft pick Drake Maye ahead of him, Zappe has become the forgotten QB in New England.

Judon practiced Thursday after showing his displeasure earlier this week about not receiving a contract extension.

Judon wants a new contract and let New England’s brass know it publicly on Monday. How the Patriots handle his behavior will go a long way to establishing the team’s culture under new coach Jerod Mayo.

The defensive tackle is dealing with blood clots, and there’s no timetable for his return.

Barmore was evaluated and treated over the weekend at Mass General Brigham.