The Patriots have over a month off before training camp kicks off at the end of July. Here are three intriguing thoughts from their spring activities:

1. **Who’s Next for a Contract Extension?**

After running back Rhamondre Stevenson locked down his contract extension, the question now is: who’s next? All eyes are on outside linebacker Matthew Judon and nose tackle Davon Godchaux, both of whom have just one season left on their contracts.

Last year, Judon staged a “hold-in” during training camp, pushing for a better deal. His efforts paid off, with the Patriots reworking his contract to boost his guaranteed money from $2 million to a hefty $14 million for the season.

In March, coach Jerod Mayo confirmed that extension talks with Judon were in progress, expressing strong support for keeping him on the team.

Judon’s base salary for 2024 stands at $6.5 million.

“There’s no question we want a guy like Judon,” Mayo said. “He’s still a premier rusher in this league, and we see him as a vital piece of our puzzle going forward.”

Judon, meanwhile, is keeping a positive outlook.

“I’m not worried about holding out or protesting,” he said. “I’m here to play ball. Last year’s situation was tough, but I’m a football player at heart.”

2. **Revamping the Run Game**

The Patriots have high hopes for Stevenson and the run game under offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt, but the success of their scheme heavily depends on the offensive line’s performance.

During spring practices, the coaching staff experimented with various line combinations. Michael Onwenu took snaps at both right tackle and right guard, bringing a veteran’s stability to the interior line.

3. **A Rising Star at Wide Receiver**

The Patriots have a crowded wide receiver room, but one standout from the spring was 2023 sixth-round pick Kayshon Boutte.

Boutte, who turned 22 in May, impressed with several highlight-reel catches. During a red zone drill, he caught three consecutive touchdown passes from Maye, who praised his knack for winning one-on-one matchups.

“He’s a good ballplayer,” Maye said.

Despite facing legal trouble with an arrest in January on illegal gambling charges, Boutte remains with the team. According to Mayo, his status will not change unless the NFL steps in.

As the Patriots gear up for training camp, these storylines promise to add plenty of excitement and anticipation to the upcoming season.