FOXBORO — The last time Patriots rookie Malik Cunningham tried to make a tackle, it didn’t go so well.

Cunningham, a college quarterback who switched to wide receiver upon signing with the Patriots as an undrafted free agent, will need to work on those skills. The 6-foot-1, 198-pound Louisville product, is working on another new position, gunner, in training camp. He said the last time he tried to make a tackle was after throwing an interception in college.

“I tried to tackle somebody and two linemen pancaked me,” he said.

His last successful attempt was in “little league.”

Cunningham downed a punt near the goal line during Thursday’s practice. He said the trickiest part was finding the ball in the air.

“I don’t think I’ve ever played gunner,” Cunningham added. “(I’m) obviously an athletic guy. Anything the team needs from me, I’m going to do it. Just doing it to the best of my ability.”

Quarterback Mac Jones is enjoying working with new playmakers, rookie receiver Demario Douglas among them. Of Douglas, Jones said, “Pop Shotta. That’s my guy. … he’s actually from my hometown, so he’s kind of a legend down in Jacksonville. He was very good in 7-on-7 because he showed that quickness so often. He’s always got the separation.” … Jones also dropped a “that’s my guy” when tight end Mike Gesicki was mentioned Thursday … Wide receiver DeVante Parker was asked who’s the Patriots’ best trash talker: “Mac Jones. For sure.” … The Patriots are set to hold their annual night practice inside Gillette Stadium for season-ticket holders and Foxboro residents on Friday night rain or shine. Their next practices open to the public will be Sunday, Monday and Tuesday at 1 p.m. in the practice fields behind the stadium.