Patriots Rookie QB Punts, Delivers Game-Winning TD vs Eagles

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Patriots Rookie QB Punts, Delivers Game-Winning TD vs Eagles

6 sourcesUpdated Aug 23, 2026

Patriots rookie Behren Morton starred in a wild preseason showing, stepping in at quarterback in the second half and unexpectedly handling punt duties when Bryce Baringer was unavailable. He completed 13 of 17 passes for 129 yards and a touchdown, and also engineered a late-game drive to secure a win, while handling three punts for 133 yards with a long of 48, averaging 44.3 yards. Morton said the punt distance was determined with guidance from long snapper Julian Ashby, and he noted the rush was swift as he lined up under pressure. Coach Mike Vrabel highlighted that Morton stepped up as an emergency punter after Baringer’s illness, underscoring Morton’s multi-position versatility that could impact his roster fate. The performances showcased Morton’s background as a high school kicker/punter and his ability to contribute in multiple ways, turning a surprising special-teams assignment into a meaningful quarterback outing. Overall, the night reinforced Morton’s potential as a dual-threat asset for the Patriots as he competes for a 53-man roster spot.

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Last updatedAug 23, 2026

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Broke patriotswire.usatoday.com · Aug 23, 12:35 AMLeft +3h5 sources +8h on

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Sports IllustratedLean LeftPatriots Rookie QB Punts, Leads Game-Winning Drive vs. Eagles

nbcsports.comOtherPatriots rookie QB Behren Morton fills in at punter, then throws game-winning TD

patriotswire.usatoday.comOtherQB by trade, punter by necessity: Patriots' Behren Morton steps up

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