Full Breakdown
Patriots Pull Off Preseason Comeback Over Eagles, Rookie Behren Morton Stars at QB and Punter
8/23/2026, 11:43:29 AM
Game Summary: Morton’s Dual Contribution Secures 24-21 Victory
On August 22, 2026 at Gillette Stadium, the New England Patriots defeated the Philadelphia Eagles 24-21 in a preseason matchup. Backup quarterback Behren Morton entered in the second half, completed 13 of 17 passes for 129 yards and a touchdown, and handled punting duties for three snaps, averaging 44.3 yards. The decisive drive began with 3:39 left in the fourth quarter and ended with a 37-yard touchdown pass to undrafted rookie wideout Nick DeGennaro, giving New England the lead it kept.
Background & Context
Both clubs used the game to evaluate depth players while preserving projected starters. The Patriots rested quarterback Drake Maye and most offensive skill players after two joint practices with the Eagles, allowing numerous rookies and late-round picks to receive meaningful reps.
Key Performances & Statistics
- Behren Morton – 13/17, 129 yd, 1 TD; 3 punts, 44.3 yd avg.
- Tommy DeVito – 69-yard TD pass to Kyle Williams before being replaced.
- Lan Larison – 74 scrimmage yards, 2-yard TD run and a 4th-and-1 conversion.
- Caleb Lomu – 57 snaps at left tackle after Marcus Bryant left with an ankle injury; allowed three pressures and one sack.
- Nick DeGennaro – Four receptions for 61 yd, including the game-winning touchdown.
Official Statements & Responses
Head coach Mike Vrabel praised Morton’s versatility, noting the emergency punting role stemmed from an injury to regular punter Bryce Baringer. He also highlighted Larison’s “gritty, tough performance.” Offensive tackle Caleb Lomu said the team had worked on edge-rush situations all week, which helped him handle his assignments.
Verbatim Quote
- “Coach came up to me and just said that if we got a punt on this drive, you’re going out there.” – Behren Morton
Why It Matters
Morton’s ability to lead a game-winning drive and serve as an emergency punter gives the Patriots a valuable contingency for special-teams disruptions and adds depth to the quarterback position. Success from undrafted receivers also signals depth in the receiving corps, influencing roster decisions.
What’s Next
The Patriots travel to Cleveland on Thursday for the final preseason game, while the Eagles host Cincinnati on Friday. Both teams will continue to assess the impact of the depth players who featured on August 22.
