New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady has conceded that it is "challenging" trying to get on the same page with his new receivers.

The 36-year-old is without his top four targets from last season, as both Wes Welker and Brandon Lloyd left the club and Aaron Hernandez was released after being arrested on a murder charge, while Rob Gronkowski is currently out recovering from back surgery.

This means the three-time Super Bowl winner is working with several rookie wideouts during training camp.

Brady told reporters: "Offensive football is about 11 guys being on the same page and really being able to anticipate what each other are trying to do.

"A challenging part of offense is when you've got new guys and they're not really sure when I'm throwing it, I'm not really sure when they're going to break, and a lot of it we just have to work out."

The Patriots start their pre-season next week against the Philadelphia Eagles.