Multiple fights break out in a joint Patriots-Panthers practice with five players ejected

In a preseason dominated by testy exchanges, the New England Patriots and Carolina Panthers became the latest teams to go at it.

In an inter-squad 11 v. 11 scrimmage on Tuesday in Foxborough, Mass., multiple fights broke out in a single session as New England’s offense and Carolina’s defense went at it.

According to reporters at practice, the first one broke out when Patriots receiver Kristian Wilkerson caught a pass from quarterback Mac Jones along the Panthers sideline.

After the catch, a few defensive backs on Carolina  – and possibly a coach – shoved Wilkerson, which prompted a response from the receiver. 

Sidelines emptied out onto the field, Wilkerson’s helmet was ripped off, and fellow Patriots receiver Kendrick Bourne reportedly began throwing punches. 

A brawl ensued at a joint practice between the New England Patriots and Carolina Panthers

The brawl began when Patriots WR Kristian Wilkerson was shoved by Panthers DBs

As the scrum died down, the two receivers were ejected from practice- as was Carolina safety Kenny Robinson.

The hostility carried over to the next play, with linemen from both teams coming face to face.

This was followed up by blocking through the whistle and another fight ensuing, this time resulting in the ejection of Patriots center James Ferentz and Panthers tackle Phil Hoskins.

Enraged, Patriots head coach Bill Belichick and Panthers head coach Matt Rhule pulled both teams aside for long huddles with stern words.

The 11 v. 11 continued without any further incidents occurring.

Both teams practice again on Wednesday ahead of a preseason matchup at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough on Friday night.  

Panthers QB Sam Darnold (14) is fighting for a starting spot with new man Baker Mayfield 

Patriots coach Bill Belichick, a strict disciplinarian, scolded his team before resuming practice