8. Health of top running backs

Running back Sammy Morris was productive last season before sustaining a season-ending sternum clavicle separation in the sixth game. Absorbing his first contact in training camp, and how he responds to that contact, will give the Patriots an idea of how much they'll be able to rely on the solid 10-year veteran. Also, top running back Laurence Maroney (pictured) says he's fully healthy -- unlike last camp when he was coming back from shoulder surgery -- which could help him lay the foundation for a solid season.