PLAYER NOTES

--WR Wes Welker made his return to the starting lineup after undergoing knee surgery last year and finished with two catches for 39 yards. Assuming there are no setbacks between now and the season opener, Welker will be ready for Week 1.

--QB Brian Hoyer continues to impress in a limited role. The backup connected with Sam Aiken on a 5-yard touchdown pass in the fourth quarter against the Rams, which gave the Patriots a temporary lead.

--Rookie TE Rob Gronkowski caught two touchdowns in the loss to the Rams as he continues to battle for a roster spot in a crowded field of tight ends. His presence gives QB Tom Brady another weapon to work with in the red zone.

--LB Tully Banta-Cain was the team's top pass rusher last year, but he committed two costly penalties in the loss to the Rams as the Patriots' defense failed to generate any pressure against Sam Bradford.

--CB Devin McCourty started for the second consecutive week, but got torched twice on a pair of long throws and served as the poster boy for the secondary's struggles against Sam Bradford. Luckily for him, one of the throws by Bradford was off the mark, otherwise it would've been another big play.

--WR Sam Aiken caught a 5-yard touchdown pass in the fourth quarter. Known primarily as a special-teamer, Aiken has a solid chance at sticking around given the Patriots' lack of depth at wide receiver.

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