The New England Patriots won their first preseason game without Belichick, defeating the Carolina Panthers 17-3.

The New England Patriots won their first preseason game without Bill Belichick as coach, defeating the Carolina Panthers 17-3. Drake Maye, the third overall pick in the 2024 draft, made his debut in the match, playing one series. The Patriots' new coach, 38-year-old Jerod Mayo, became the NFL's youngest coach, while Carolina also played their first game under new coach Dave Canales. The Patriots took a 7-0 lead in the second quarter and held onto the victory in their first game without Belichick on the sideline.