FOXBOROUGH – After three straight padded practices, it feels like the dog days of summer have arrived at Patriots training camp. Wednesday's session was another scorcher, but as they've done the previous two days, the team powered through a challenging two-hour session that featured plenty of 11-on-11 work.

Milton Williams continues to be one of the most active presences on the Patriots defensive line. The former Eagle, who arrived in New England after four seasons in Philadelphia, is already building chemistry with Christian Barmore and flashing the disruptive traits that made him a valuable rotational piece in Vic Fangio's system.

"There's been some good work," Williams said after the session. "Getting adjusted to that game-type tempo, moving fast."

Williams and Barmore have lockers next to each other and have been working closely to build synergy. Through a week of training camp, the potential of the dangerous duo is already apparent.

"We just have a lot of conversations… what side you like rushing on, what you're trying to work on, and let's work off each other," Williams said. "Just building off games."

Head coach Mike Vrabel praised Williams' speed and quickness, noting how his style can help linebackers play more freely behind him. Williams echoed that sentiment, saying the Patriots scheme is even more aggressive than what he played in Philly.

"This is like, we attack and we read nothing," he said. "We're attacking and trying to get penetration."

With the Patriots investing heavily in Williams this offseason, he's aware of the expectations but not burdened by them.

"You know when they invest that much into you, you know the good, the bad, you're gonna hear it all," he said. "I just come out here, try to get better every day at something."

D.J. James Seizing His Shot at Cornerback

With injuries opening up reps in the secondary, second-year cornerback D.J. James has made the most of his opportunity. The former Auburn standout has been a frequent presence around the football, showing improved confidence and physicality in coverage.

"I manifested it," James said. "They say make plays on the ball, and I taught myself, make a play on the ball and then it just came to me."

James credited a focused offseason and a daily commitment to his routine for his growth. He also pointed to veterans like Jonathan Jones and Christian Gonzalez as key mentors during his rookie season. James spent training camp with the Seahawks after being selected in the sixth round, but was released in early September. The Patriots picked him up and James spent the rest of the season on New England's practice squad.

"I sat back and learned from some great guys," he said. "Took a lot in from those guys."

Vrabel noted James as one of the players who has improved the most since the spring.

"He's taken advantage of some players that aren't there," Vrabel said. "He moves up a group or whatever that may be, and therefore he's taking advantage of his opportunities."

With his instincts and ball skills flashing more consistently, James is making a push for a role in the cornerback rotation.

Ja'Lynn Polk Returns, Makes Immediate Impact

After missing the early portion of camp, wide receiver Ja'Lynn Polk returned to the field Tuesday and wasted no time making an impression. Polk caught a touchdown pass from Drake Maye in his first practice back, a small but encouraging sign for a player looking to get back on track after a rookie year that saw him catch just 12 passes and end the season on injured reserve.

"It's been great," Polk said. "Just being ready for the opportunity, dialing in on details and going out there and executing."

Polk, who was among the most targeted receivers in last year's training camp, has maintained a positive mindset throughout his rehab process. He emphasized staying mentally sharp and continuing to learn the offense even while sidelined.

Vrabel praised Polk's work ethic and preparation.

"He worked extremely hard with [head athletic trainer] Jim [Whalen] and [strength coach] Frank [Piraino]," Vrabel said. "I didn't see the mental errors, which sometimes occur when you are getting the installation but not able to go and rep it."

Polk's return adds another layer of intrigue to a wide receiver group still sorting out roles behind Stefon Diggs. If he can stay healthy and build chemistry with Maye, Polk could quickly reassert himself as a key contributor.

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