Patriots Vs. Lions Preseason Week 1: 5 Things To Know

FOXBOROUGH, MA — Football is back, baby. The New England Patriots kick off their 2019 preseason slate Thursday night on the road against the Detroit Lions. Here are five things to know:

Patriots-Lions game information

The game begins at 7:30 p.m. You can watch the local broadcast on WBZ and listen on WBZ-FM (98.5) The Sports Hub.

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What's with Brady?

Fans' confidence in Brady's long-term status with the Patriots went from a high to low real quick. Here's what happened:

On Sunday, it was reported Brady signed a two-year extension that would kick in after this season, meaning he'd be playing football in New England until he is 45. But it turned out the contract has a quirk that voids those two extra years at the end of this season, essentially making it just a raise for this season and then allowing him to become a free agent for the first time in his career.

That, coupled with Brady and Giselle putting their Brookline mansion on the market, has people wondering if this might be the last season for Tom Terrific in New England.

Familiar faces

The Lions and Patriots have been practicing together the past week, which is no surprise given the connections.

Former Patriots defensive coordinator is entering his second year as the Lions head coach. He was on Bill Belichick's staff for three Super Bowl championships. You may not spot him on the sideline though; Patricia recently had leg surgery and his mobility is limited.

Detroit's biggest free agent signing was also New England's biggest free agent loss. Trey Flowers will be trying to get to Brady (or whomever is taking snaps for New England tonight) after playing four years for the Patriots, emerging last season as one of the league's most disruptive pass-rushers.

You may also recognize Lions receiver Danny Amendola, who played a huge part in helping the Patriots to a pair of Super Bowl championships with big postseason games.

Wait, no Jules?

Brady's favorite target won't be suiting up for tonight's game. Julian Edelman, the 33-year-old reigning Super Bowl MVP who just signed a contract extension, suffered a thumb injury and will miss some action. He's expected to be ready for Week 1 of the regular season.

So who's going to catch anything?

With or without Edelman, the receiving corps will be worth watching tonight. Fans are excited for top draft pick N'Keal Harry and you may recognize Phillip Dorsett, but with Rob Gronkowski retired, Benjamin Watson suspended, and Josh Gordon just recently applying for reinstatement to the NFL, Brady's options will be limited to start the season.