FOXBORO, MA. – Patriots’ Antonio Gibson Reflects on Commanders Reunion and Young Quarterbacks’ Potential
The air at Gillette Stadium crackled with a unique energy this past Wednesday as the New England Patriots opened their practice fields to the Washington Commanders for a day of highly anticipated joint drills. Beyond the competitive spirit, the session served as a significant reunion for a contingent of players who once donned the burgundy and gold. Among those familiar faces were Patriots defensive stalwarts Deatrich Wise Jr., cornerback Jonathan Jones, and defensive tackle Carl Davis, all of whom had previously spent time with the Washington franchise. However, for Patriots running back Antonio Gibson, the joint practice carried a particularly personal resonance: it marked his inaugural opportunity to line up across from his former team since departing Washington earlier this year.
This reunion also meant a first-hand look at a player Gibson had only observed from afar during his tenure with the Commanders: second-year quarterback Jayden Daniels. Daniels, who has quickly become a focal point of Washington’s future, drew praise from his former team’s running back. Following Wednesday’s intense practice session, Gibson spoke with Commanders.com’s Zach Selby, his admiration for Daniels evident. “Special, man,” Gibson declared, his words tinged with respect. “There’s not too much to say about it, y’all seen the play, it ain’t too much I gotta say. But, special, man. I hope he keeps doing his thing. I hope he has a long career.” Gibson’s sentiment underscores the immediate impact Daniels has made in the league and the high expectations surrounding his development.
Interestingly, while Gibson never shared a huddle with Jayden Daniels during their respective times in Washington, fate has now placed him alongside another highly touted young quarterback who was selected mere moments after Daniels in the 2024 NFL Draft. That signal-caller is none other than Patriots rookie Drake Maye. Both Gibson and Maye are now embarking on a critical phase of their careers, adapting to a completely new offensive system in New England. Under the guidance of offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels, a significant portion of the Patriots’ roster, including seasoned veterans and promising newcomers like Gibson and Maye, is in the midst of a steep learning curve. The integration of McDaniels’ playbook is a comprehensive undertaking, requiring diligence and quick understanding from every player on the field.
The pairing of Gibson’s versatile backfield presence with Maye’s burgeoning quarterback skills represents a potential cornerstone for the Patriots’ offensive future. Despite what was described as a “pitiful 2024 season overall” for Maye and the Patriots (likely a typo in the original text, referring to the 2023 or upcoming 2024 season), the synergy between these two players as they navigate McDaniels’ scheme will be crucial to New England’s success in the coming years. Their ability to quickly grasp and execute the intricacies of the new system will be a key determinant in how effectively the Patriots’ offense can evolve and compete in a challenging AFC East division. This joint practice offered a glimpse into not just past connections, but also the exciting potential of new beginnings for Antonio Gibson and the Patriots’ young offensive core.
