Patriots Sign WR T.J. Luther to Practice Squad, Release Thyrick Pitts - Roster Tracker
Bill Belichick hasn't won a playoff game since Tom Brady left after the 2019 season. This year he hopes he has the roster to take the New England Patriots back to post-season glory. The roster-building never stops. And therefore, our Patriots Country at SI coverage of doesn’t either …
SEPT. 1 PATRIOTS SIGN WR T.J. LUTHER TO PRACTICE SQUAD, RELEASE THYRICK PITTS The New England Patriots continue to add to their stable of receivers, as they have signed former New York Jets wideout T.J. Luther aboard, per a report from KPRC 2’s Aaron Wilson.
After going undrafted in April, Luther signed as a free agent with the Jets, with whom he remained for the duration of training camp. During the preseason, the Wofford and Gardner-Webb product playing a combined 76 offensive and special teams snaps over three exhibition contests.
Having been waived by the Jets during roster cut downs earlier this week, New England has added him to their practice squad — which already includes receivers Jalen Raegor.
In order to accommodate Luther’s signing, the Patriots are releasing fellow receiver Thyrick Pitts from the practice squad.
Pitts was originally signed by the Chicago Bears as a rookie free agent from Delaware following April’s draft. The 6-1, 201-pounder, was released by Chicago at the end of July and was claimed by New England on Aug. 1. He played in 48 games during his college career and finished with 172 receptions for 2,429 yards and 23 touchdowns.
Pitts was waived by the Pats on Tuesday as part of their mandatory roster reduction. He was subsequently signed to the practice squad on Wednesday.
AUG. 31 PATRIOTS SIGN FORMER FIRST-ROUND PICK JALEN REAGOR The Patriots have added a former first-round draft pick, signing Jalen Reagor to their practice squad on Thursday.
Reagor, the former top pick of the Philadelphia Eagles, was cut by the Minnesota Vikings and cleared waivers. He was originally selected by the Eagles in the first round (21st overall) in 2020. The TCU product failed to live up to expectations in Philly - struggling with drops and, at times, effort - resulting in him being traded to the Vikings.
In two seasons with the Eagles, Reagor caught 64 passes for 695 yards and three touchdowns. Last year with the Vikings, he notched only eight receptions for 104 yards and one score.
The addition of Reagor makes sense, in the wake of the Patriots putting second-year receiver Tyquan Thornton on injured reserve. He may be a candidate to be called up to the 53-man roster for New England's Sept. 10 season-opener against his old team, the Eagles. With the Pats having already signed the maximum 16 players to the practice squad, a roster move will have to be made.
AUG. 31 PATRIOTS CLAIM QB MATT CORRAL OFF WAIVERS FROM CAROLINA PANTHERS The Patriots, per NFL Network, claimed quarterback Matt Corral off waivers from the Carolina Panthers on Thursday. The 24-year-old joins the Patriots 53-man roster, behind starting quarterback Mac Jones.
He and Bailey Zappe will likely hold a quick competition to be Jones' backup.
Corral was drafted in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft out of Ole Miss. He missed his entire rookie season in Carolina with a Lisfranc injury suffered during a preseason matchup against New England at Gillette Stadium.
Corral's connection to New England does not end there. Carolina traded their fourth-rounder (No. 137) and a 2023 third-rounder (No. 76) in return for pick No. 94 in the third-round in 2022 to draft Corral. In turn, used the 2022 fourth-rounder to draft Zappe and their 2023 third-rounder to secure hybrid safety/linebacker Marte Mapu.
In addition to Jones, Corral joins Zappe and undrafted rookie Malik Cunningham in the Patriots quarterback room. He fills the 53-man roster spot formerly held by receiver Tyquan Thornton, who was placed on temporary injured reserve on Wednesday.
AUG. 31 PATRIOTS SIGN RONNIE PERKINS, JAMES FERENTZ TO SET PRACTICE SQUAD AT 16 The New England Patriots signed linebacker Ronnie Perkins and center James Ferentz to their practice squad.
Ferentz joined the NFL as an undrafted rookie out of Iowa. Following brief stints with the Houston Texans and Denver Broncos, he signed with New England in 2017. As a rotational piece between the active roster and practice squad, Ferentz has appeared in 40 games with nine starts for the club.
Perkins was the Patriots third-round selection (No. 96 overall) in the 2021 draft. However, he has yet to see the field for either regular season or playoff games. Perkins was inactive for most of his rookie year before moving to injured reserve. He also spent the entirety of his second season on IR.
Full practice squad roster is here.
AUG. 30 PATRIOTS SIGN TIGHT ENDS MATT SOKOL, PHAROAH BROWN TO PRACTICE SQUAD The New England Patriots have bolstered their tight end depth via the practice squad by signing veteran Matt Sokol and newcomer Pharoah Brown. Both players were present at Wednesday's practice.
Sokol has been with the Patriots since May 2022, while Brown is joining New England by way of the Cleveland Browns and Houston Texans. He has 51 career catches for 478 yards, and spent some time at Houston in 2020 playing under Pats offensive coordinator Bill O’Brien.
Pats Practice Squad:
QB Bailey Zappe, QB Malik Cunningham, S Joshuah Bledsoe, WR Thyrick Pitts, OT Andrew Stueber, P Corliss Waitman, DL Jeremiah Pharms, OL Andrew Stueber, LB Calvin Munson, RB Kevin Harris, RB Ty Montgomery, TE Matt Sokol, TE Pharoah Brown
AUG. 30 PATRIOTS RUNNING BACKS TY MONTGOMERY, KEVIN HARRIS SPOTTED AT PRACTICE; BACK VIA PRACTICE SQUAD? Despite being waived by the New England Patriots less than 24 hours ago, running backs Ty Montgomery and Kevin Harris were spotted during the media portion of Pats practice on Wednesday.
As such, it can be assumed that both Montgomery and Harris have been signed to the Patriots practice squad.
New England is currently carrying only two running backs on its 53-man roster: starter Rhamondre Stevenson and former Dallas Cowboys standout Ezekiel Elliott.
Pats Practice Squad:
QB Bailey Zappe, QB Malik Cunningham, S Joshuah Bledsoe, WR Thyrick Pitts, OT Andrew Stueber, P Corliss Waitman, DL Jeremiah Pharms, OL Andrew Stueber, LB Calvin Munson, RB Kevin Harris, RB Ty Montgomery.
AUG. 30 PATRIOTS SIGN CALVIN MUNSON, KODY RUSSEY TO PRACTICE SQUAD The New England Patriots have signed linebacker Calvin Munson and offensive lineman Kody Russey to the practice squad, per MassLive.
Munson, who made a late-preseason push for a spot on the 53-man roster, is expected to subsequently sign with the opening day cast once injured reserve designations are placed later in the day.
Pats Practice Squad:
QB Bailey Zappe, QB Malik Cunningham, S Joshuah Bledsoe, WR Thyrick Pitts, OT Andrew Stueber, P Corliss Waitman, DL Jeremiah Pharms, OL Andrew Stueber, LB Calvin Munson
AUG. 30 PATRIOTS SIGN JEREMIAH PHARMS, CORLISS WAITMAN TO PRACTICE SQUAD The New England Patriots have signed defensive lineman Jeremiah Pharms and punter Corliss Waitman to the practice squad, per MassLive. Neither Pharms nor Waitman were claimed on waivers after being cut by the Pats Tuesday.
Waitman, who previously punted for the Pittsburgh Steelers and Denver Broncos, parlayed a strong preseason performance to make the scout team as insurance for rookie Bryce Baringer.
Pats Practice Squad:
QB Bailey Zappe, QB Malik Cunningham, S Joshuah Bledsoe, WR Thyrick Pitts, OT Andrew Stueber, P Corliss Waitman, DL Jeremiah Pharms.
AUG. 30 BAILEY ZAPPE CLEARS WAIVERS, SIGNING WITH PRACTICE SQUAD - Bill Belichick's gamble to cut Bailey Zappe appears to have paid off, as Wednesday the quarterback went unclaimed by NFL teams on waivers and will re-sign with the Patriots on their practice squad.0
Undrafted rookie quarterback Malik Cunningham also went unclaimed, clearing the way for his return to the team on the practice squad as well. The Patriots will likely still search for a veteran backup quarterback to play behind Mac Jones.
Offensive lineman Andrew Stueber, safety Joshuah Bledsoe and receiver Thyrick Pitts are also expected to sign on the 16-man practice squad as well.
AUG. 29 PATRIOTS CUT OFFENSIVE LINEMAN BILL MURRAY The New England Patriots have waived reserve offensive lineman Bill Murray, per Doug Kyed of the Boston Herald.
Murray, 26, entered the NFL with New England as an undrafted rookie in 2020. The William & Mary product spent the entirety of his first two years on the practice squad before moving across the line of scrimmage for 2022. After being elevated form the scout team versus the Minnesota Vikings and Chicago Bears, the 6-4, 295-pounder, made his official debut with three snaps on special teams versus the Buffalo Bills. During training camp and the preseason, Murray saw significant playing time with both the starters and reserves at both guard and tackle on the right side.
Current roster: 59. Players to be cut: 6.
AUG. 29 PATRIOTS CUT LINEBACKER CALVIN MUNSON The New England Patriots are cutting linebacker Calvin Munson, per Mark Daniels of MassLive. However, the report advises that the linebacker will go back to the 53-man roster tomorrow after the Patriots place someone on the injured reserve list.
AUG. 29 PATRIOTS CUT RUNNING BACKS KEVIN HARRIS, J.J. TAYLOR AND OL ANDREW STUEBER The New England Patriots have waived veteran running back J.J. Taylor and reserve offensive lineman Andrew Stueber.
Since joining the Pats in 2020 as an undrafted rookie out of Arizona, Taylor has appeared in 12 career games for New England 156 yards and a pair of touchdowns on 52 carries. Taylor was a quite effective between-the-tackles runner for the Patriots, and also contributed as a pass catcher out of the backfield. Taylor is also capable of making things happen on early downs. When he is at his best, the former Arizona Wildcat has the shiftiness and the skill set to be a solid ‘change-of-pace’ back, if retained by the practice squad.
Though he performed well early in training camp, Harris' production has recently cooled a bit. However, he has shown an ability to contribute on early downs, as well as on goal-line stands. Despite spending the first five weeks of the 2022 season on the practice squad, Harris still saw action in five regular-season games. The South Carolina product compiled 52 yards on 18 carries and one touchdown in his rookie campaign in 2022. Measuring in at 5-10, 221 pounds, Harris is the type of straightforward power runner that can provide some short-yardage production. The Pats rookie is a reliable back with the talent to quickly develop into a solid rotational option in the Patriots backfield, should hre return via the scout team.
Stueber has the distinction of being the Patriots’ final choice in the 2022 NFL Draft. The 6-6, 325-pound former Michigan Wolverine appeared in 34 games with 22 starts. He started 20 games at right tackle and two at right guard. He spent the entirety of 2022 on injured reserve and struggled in his work at both reserve guard and tackle during 2023 camp.
AUG. 29 PATRIOTS CUT RECEIVERS PITTS, WEBB The New England Patriots have cut receivers Thyrick Pitts and Raleigh Webb.
AUG. 29 PATRIOTS CUT QUARTERBACKS BAILEY ZAPPE, MALIK CUNNINGHAM; MAC'S BACKUP? In what may end up being their biggest surprise of the day in the entire NFL, the Patriots are releasing quarterback Bailey Zappe, per NFL Network. But then, moments later, a report surfaced that the Pats were also releasing undrafted rookie Malik Cunningham.
Zappe had entered training camp expected to compete for the starting job along with quarterback Mac Jones.
While Jones was shelved due to a high ankle sprain last October, Zappe performed well. The rookie demonstrated poise within the Patriots system. He led the team to a 2-0 record as a starter. Zappe finished the season completing 65 of 92 passes for 781 yards with five touchdowns and three interceptions.
Cunningham's release only serves to enhance the shocking nature of the Pats actions. The undrafted rookie's dual-threat abilities as a quarterback were on full display during the Pats’ preseason opener against Texans. However, the Louisville product has since known little else but struggle at both receiver and quarterback.
With Trace McSorley's release Monday, as of now Jones is the only quarterback on New England's roster.
AUG. 29 PATRIOTS CUT OFFENISVE LINEMAN KODY RUSSEY The New England Patriots are parting ways with offensive lineman Kody Russey.
Russey was signed as an undrafted free agent in 2022. He was elevated to the active roster for their games against the New York Jets and Indianapolis Colts, on October 30 and November 6, respectively, but did not play in either. Russey was signed to the active roster on November 8, and remained there the rest of the season, but was inactive for each game. Russey showed signs of being a capable reserve at both guard and center during camp, until suffering an injury late in the preseason. He would be welcomed retention via the practice squad. At 6-2, 292, the undrafted rookie has adequate size, as well the versatility to alight at guard or center.
AUG. 29 PATRIOTS CUT TIGHT END MATT SOKOL, SAFETY JOSHUAH BLEDSOE The New England Patriots have waived tight end Matt Sokol and saftey Joshuah Bledsoe.
AUG. 29 PATRIOTS CUT TIGHT END ANTHONY FIRKSER, DEFENSIVE LINEMAN JEREMIAH PHARMS The New England Patriots have cut both tight end Anthony Firsker and defensive lineman Jeremiah Pharms, Jr.
Firkser joined the NFL as an undrafted free agent with the New York Jets in 2017. After being released at the end of training camp, he was signed to the Kansas City Chiefs practice squad, where he spent the remainder of the season. Firkser signed with the Tennessee Titans in 2018, where he spent his next four seasons as a backup. The 6-3, 220-pound tight end appeared in 58 games for the Titans, compiling 106 receptions and five touchdowns. In fact, his face may be familiar for some Patriots fans, who remember his touchdown catch against the team in Tennessee’s 2019 wild card win at Gillette Stadium.
Though he played in 11 games for the Atlanta Falcons last season, catching nine passes on 13 targets for 100 yards, 2023 may be considered a comeback year for Firkser. The 28-year-old was expected to compete for the third tight end spot on the Pats roster, behind expected starters Hunter Henry and the currently injured Mike Gesicki.
The Patriots also waived, Pharms per Doug Kyed of the Boston Herald.
AUG. 29 PATRIOTS TRADE FOLK, CUT HINES As expected it's a busy day of transactions for the New England Patriots.
They most recently traded veteran kicker Nick Folk to the Titans for a 7th-round pick in 2025, and are releasing second-year offensive lineman Chasen Hines, per the Boston Herald.
Hines was selected by the Patriots out of LSU in the sixth round (210th overall) of the 2022 NFL Draft. Despite seeing sporadic playing time during his first training camp with the club, he made the initial 53-man roster. He was placed on injured reserve in October, without appearing in a regular season game.
The Patriots recent acquisition of linemen Tyrone Wheatley and Verderian Lowe made Hines expendable. Should he clear waivers, he will be a candidate to return via the practice squad.
Current roster: 75. Players to be cut: 22.
AUG. 29 PATRIOTS CALVIN ANDERSON ACTIVATED OFF NON-FOOTBALL INJURY LIST New England Patriots offensive lineman Calvin Anderson, who sat out both training camp and preseason has been removed from the non-football injury/illness list and is eligible to return to practice.
In doing so, they have solidified his place on the Pats initial 53-man roster to begin the 2023 season.
The former Texas Longhorn joined the NFL as an undrafted free agent with the Patriots in 2019. Unfortunately, his stay in New England lasted only 11 days as he was released by the team.
Following his brief stint with the Pats, Anderson was swiftly claimed by the New York Jets. He remained with New York until being signed off their practice squad by the Denver Broncos. Throughout the next four seasons, Andreson saw action in 41 games making 12 starts.
Anderson’s best season came in 2022, where he played on 47 percent of the Broncos’ offensive snaps — most of which came at left tackle. Per Pro Football Focus, he gave up two sacks last season as well as 15 additional quarterback pressures.
Anderson returned to the club in March, signing a two-year, $7 million contract.
AUG. 28 PATRIOTS CUT VETERAN QB TRACE McSORLEY The New England Patriots waived third-string quarterback Trace McSorley on Monday, per an NFL Network report.
McSorley, 27, is a veteran of four NFL seasons, having played with both the Baltimore Ravens and Arizona Cardinals. With his release, the Patriots now carry starter Mac Jones, No. 2 Bailey Zappe and undrafted rookie Malik Cunningham. His electric style of play caught the eye of the NFL universe during the preseason, primarily his game-ending scoring drive against the Houston Texans in the Pats’ preseason opener.
While Cunningham’s position on the team is clearly not guaranteed by the Pats cutting McSorley, his chances of making the team may have slightly increased as a result.
Said Bill Belichick of Cunningham Monday morning, "Malik is a really interesting player. Kid never played receiver before or returned kicks, and he's done both. As well as playing quarterback. He certainly has some things on his resume. So do other players. We'll see how all that plays out."
As for McSorley, his performance during training camp, as well as his scout team acumen, make him a potential retention via the practice squad.
AUG. 28 PATRIOTS CUT PUNTER CORLISS WAITMAN Rookie 6th-round draft choice Bryce Baringer has won New England's punting job, as - according to NFL insider Tom Pelissero - the Patriots on Monday cut veteran Corliss Waitman.
Baringer boomed kicks of 52 and 69 yards in the Pats' preseason finale last weekend in Tennessee. Waitman, who previously punted for the Steelers and Broncos, is a candidate for the practice squad.
Current roster: 78. Players to be cut: 25.
AUG. 27 PATRIOTS TRADING FOR VIKINGS' OL VEDERIAN LOWE The Patriots' commitment to upgrading their porous offensive line continues, as NFL insider Jordan Schultz reports late Sunday night they are trading a 6th-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft for second-year Minnesota Vikings' tackle Verderian Lowe. New England owned two 6th-round picks next year, thanks to 2022's Justin Herron trade to the Las Vegas Raiders.
Lowe, 6-foot-6 and 320 pounds, was Minnesota's 6th-round draft pick out of Illinois in 2022. He played four games for the Vikings last season as a rookie, all as a backup. He played 140 snaps this preseason, rotating between both tackle positions.
Earlier Sunday, the Pats traded running back Pierre Strong Jr. to the Cleveland Browns in exchange for developmental tackle Tyrone Wheatley Jr.
The Patriots now have 79 players on their roster, and must cut 26 before Tuesday's 4 p.m. cutdown deadline.
AUG. 27 PATRIOTS WAIVE FIVE, INCLUDING SCOTTY WASHINGTON, C.J. MARABLE, JUSTUS TAVAI The New England Patriots continue to trim their roster in advance of Tuesday's 4 p.m. cutdown deadline to 53.
The Patriots have officially waived tight end Scotty Washington, running back C.J. Marable cornerback Rodney Randle, offensive lineman Micah Vanterpool and defensive tackle Justus Tavai, per Sunday's NFL transaction wire.
Washington originally signed with the Patriots practice squad in September 2022. The 6-5, 247-pounder had spent the past two seasons on the Cincinnati Bengals’ practice squad before being waived ahead of the Aug. 22 roster trimming deadline. Washington aligned at receiver for the Bengals until December 2021, when he converted to tight end. He was placed on the practice squad’s injured list at the end of December after logging 22 offensive snaps in his NFL debut on Christmas Eve against his former mates in Cincinnati.
Marable was a standout during his final collegiate season with the Coastal Carolina Chanticleers, earning First-Team All-Sun Belt honors in 2020.After going undrafted in 2021, Marable signed as a rookie free agent with the Chicago Bears. However, he was released after just two preseason games. Marable was then selected in the 28th round of the 2022 USFL Draft by the Birmingham. The 26-year-old compiled 925 rushing yards and eight touchdowns on 220 carries, helping the Stallions to back-to-back USFL championships in 2022 and 2023. The 5-10, 200-pound back also earned 48 catches for 396 yards and two scoring receptions.
Tavai was signed by New England as a rookie free agent out of San Diego State in May. His name is a familiar one for Pats fans, being the younger brother of linebacker Jahlani, who is about to enter his third season with New England. The 6-3, 290-pounder played in 12 games and finished with 38 tackles, 3.5 sacks and was named the Polynesian College Football Player of the Year last season at San Diego State. Tavai played in 25 games with 19 starts during his time in Hawaii and finished with 72 total tackles with four sacks.
Randle went undrafted in 2019. Randle spent his rookie preseason with the Los Angeles Chargers before being waived at the roster deadline. Following his brief stint with the NFL, the 6-foot, 170-pound native of Beaumont, Texas, native spent time with the XFL’s Tampa Bay Vipers in 2020 before heading to the CFL. Over the course of 23 games between the Montreal Alouettes and Hamilton Tiger-Cats, Randle compiled 69 total tackles (58 on defense, 11 on special teams) as well as four interceptions.
Vanterpool went undrafted out of the University of Hawaii in 2023. He spent the past few months as a member of the XFL's New Jersey Generals offensive line, taking snaps at both right and left tackle and guard positions. The 6-6, 315-pound lineman showed the same type of positional versatility throughout his time at Hawaii. During his final collegiate season, he was named to the All-Mountain West second-team after starting 13 games at right guard; allowing neither a sack, nor register a penalty.
The Patriots had previously confirmed the cuts of defensive end Carl Davis, cornerback Quandre Mosely, defender Carson Wells, linebacker Diego Fagot, tight end Johnny Lumpkin and safety Brad Hawkins.
Current roster: 78. Players to be cut: 25.
AUG. 27 PATRIOTS CUT LB DIEGO FAGOT, JOHNNY LUMPKIN, BRAD HAWKINS The New England Patriots have released ex-Navy inside linebacker Diego Fagot, tight end Johnny Lumpkin and safety Brad Hawkins, according to the Boston Herald.
Fagot, a former Navy inside linebacker, began his NFL career by receiving an invite to the Baltimore Ravens rookie minicamp, after going undrafted in 2022. His practice performance earned him an offer and he officially signed with the team. He was, however, waived by Baltimore in August.
The 6-3, 240-pound Fagot is a two-time first-team All-American Athletic Conference selection who had 94 tackles last season and was named the Shrine Bowl defensive MVP. Fagot compiled 282 tackles. 9.5 sacks, five forced fumbles, five recoveries and two interceptions in 42 games during his tenure as a Navy Midshipman.
Lumkpin, an athletic, yet unseasoned tight end, played his college football at Hutchinson before transferring to Louisiana. The 6-6, 268-pound tight end signed with the Patriots as an undrafted free agent following April's draft.
Hawkins originally signed with the Atlanta Falcons as an undrafted free agent in May 2022. The 6-1, 221-pound safety had his most productive collegiate season in 2021, compiling 60 total tackles and two forced fumbles. He signed with the Patriots in early August primarily as a practice player. Hawkins took notable snaps during the Patriots three preseason matchups.
Current roster: 83. Players to be cut: 30.
AUG. 27 PATS CUT OLB CARSON WELLS Now that training camp and the preseason is over, the Patriots - and all NFL teams - will begin in earnest cutting their rosters from as many as 90 to 53 by Tuesday's 4 p.m. deadline. The Pats continued that process Sunday morning by cutting outside linebacker Carson Wells, according to the Boston Herald.
Current roster: 86. Players to be cut: 33.
AUG. 26 PATRIOTS CUT DEFENSIVE TACKLE CARL DAVIS, JR. The New England Patriots have released defensive tackle Carl Davis, Jr, per a report from MassLive.com. Beginning the process to trim their roster to 53 by Tuesday's deadline, they also released cornerback Quandre Mosley.
The 6-5, 320-pound Davis product had been a valued contributor within the Patriots system as a two-gap interior defensive lineman. Besides providing size and strength up front, he also became a disruptive presence when defending the outside zone. It was hoped that his ability to hold up inside against a double team would allow the Pats’ defensive ends and edge rushers to flow freely to the ball. However, Davis’ contributions in this area were sporadic, at best. Despite some solid showings at the nose tackle position, the 31-year-old was also occasionally beaten on his assignments. He finishes his Patriots tenure having played 36 games (making seven starts), while compiling 33 tackles (three, for loss,) two sacks and one fumble recovery.
Mosely, 24, had signed to New England’s practice squad during the final month of the 2022 season. The former transfer from Eastern Arizona to Kentucky did so after entering the league as a member of the Cowboys' undrafted class last spring. He signed a reserve-futures contract in January and will be subject to waivers.
AUG. 24 MARQUAN McCALL FAILS PATRIOTS PHYSICAL, RETURNS TO WAIVERS Less than 24 hours after claiming him off waivers, the New England Patriots have parted ways with defensive tackle Marquan McCall.
McCall, per a Wednesday afternoon report, failed his physical with the Pats, due to a previously undisclosed knee injury. Per NFL insider Jordan Schultz, the injury came as a surprise, as McCall did not miss any time during his stay with the Carolina Panthers. He was conspicuously absent from what was to be his Pats practice debut on Wednesday afternoon.
As a result, the 6-3, 345-pound nose tackle has once again been placed on waivers. Conversely, the Patriots now have an open roster spot, which they may choose to fill prior to their preseason finale against the Tennessee Titans on Friday at Nissan Stadium.
AUG. 23 PATS CUT INJURED WR TRE NIXON, AGAIN The final draft choice by heralded personnel director Ernie Adams may never get on the field in New England, as for the third consecutive year the Patriots have cut receiver Tre Nixon. Drafted in the 7th round in 2021, Nixon has battled competition and injuries during his career and has yet to play a single snap in an NFL game.
He was released this week to make room for new defensive tackle Marquan McCall. With the potential shown by rookies Demario Douglas and Kayshon Boutte, Nixon was fighting an uphill battle for a roster spot this camp. In the first preseason game he dropped a touchdown pass from quarterback Malik Cunningham and last weekend in Green Bay he suffered a shoulder injury attempting to make a diving catch against the Packers.
Nixon has spent his time in New England on the practice squad or with a futures contract. Waived with an injury designation, he is now exposed to the waiver wire. If another team doesn't claim him, Nixon could return to the Pats' injured reserve.
AUG. 22 PATRIOTS CLAIM NOSE TACKLE MARQUAN MCCALL With Matthew Judon, Josh Uche and the arrival of rookie Keion White, the Patriots feel like they have plenty of pass-rushers. With Tuesday's signing of behemoth defensive tackle Marquan McCall, now they have another run-stuffer.
New England has claimed McCall off waivers from the Carolina Panthers. After making that team as an undrafted free agent last season, the 6-foot-3, 345-pound nose tackle made 15 tackles in the regular season. In Foxboro he joins defensive tackles Davon Godchaux, Christian Barmore, Lawrence Guy Sr., Daniel Ekuale, Carl Davis Jr., Jeremiah Pharms Jr. and Justus Tavai.
AUG. 18 PATS ROSTER PROJECTION
With the Patriots scheduled for travel to Green Bay for joint practices in preparation for their second preseason game against the Packers at Lambeau Field on Aug. 19, here is Patriots Country’s second attempt at predicting the Patriots opening day roster.
Quarterback (3)
Mac Jones
Bailey Zappe
Malik Cunningham
Out:
Trace McSorley
Though ‘Malik Magic’ continues to grip the region, New England’s quarterback hierarchy is unlikely to change prior to the start of the regular season. Jones remains the overwhelming favorite as the starter, with Zappe serving as New England’s backup option. Cunningham’s dual-threat abilities as a quarterback were on full display during the Pats’ loss to the Texans, which is leading to increased snaps during practice. The Louisville product makes the cut, while McSorley’s scout team acumen makes him a likely retention via the practice squad.
Running Back (4)
Rhamondre Stevenson
Pierre Strong Jr.
C.J. Marable
Kevin Harris
Out:
J.J. Taylor
PUP: Ty Montgomery
It may seem unorthodox for New England to skim the USFL waters to obtain a savvy veteran to provide assistance for Stevenson in the top spot. However, Marable’s receiving ability out of the backfield earns him a spot. While Strong and Harris are still developmental talents, they have each shown the ability to handle reserve duties. Montgomery’s leg injury may require a stint on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list, keeping him on the sidelines through Week 4.
Wide Receiver (6)
JuJu Smith-Schuster
DeVante Parker
Kendrick Bourne
Tyquan Thornton
Kayshon Boutte
Demario Douglas
Out:
Tre Nixon, Raleigh Webb, Thyrick Pitts
Carrying six receivers may seem excessive. However, the Pats will benefit from a diverse talent pool at the position. Douglas has performed well enough to warrant his roster spot, with Thornton earning his place based as much on potential as prowess. Despite his less-than auspicious preseason debut, Boutte’s athleticism and dynamic play-making abilities make him worthy of selection, as well.
Tight End (2)
Hunter Henry
Mike Gesicki
Out:
Matt Sokol, Scotty Washington, Johnny Lumpkin, Anthony Firkser
With Henry and Gesicki set to fulfill the 12-personnel duties in offensive coordinator Bill O’Brien’s offense, the Pats choose to foster depth at other positions of need. Sokol has performed well during camp, and would be New England’s likely selection if they choose to keep three. Firkser’s abilities to align at both H-back and fullback make him a likely practice squad candidate.
Offensive Line (9)
Trent Brown
Riley Reiff
Conor McDermott
Jake Andrews
Sidy Sow
Atonio Mafi
Cole Strange
David Andrews
Calvin Anderson
PUP: Michael Onwenu
Out:
James Ferentz, Kody Russey, Chasen Hines, Bill Murray, Andrew Stueber, Micah Vanterpool
New England invested three draft selections in 2023 to help build a deep stable of versatile linemen for the foreseeable future. The Pats are likely to utilize a rotation of Reiff and McDermott at tackle opposite established starter Trent Brown. Rookie Sidy Sow is a name to watch, as his ability to play both guard and tackle may allow him to receive significant playing time. Having yet to take a practice or preseason snap, Onwenu seems to be a strong candidate to start 2023 on PUP.
Defensive Line (5)
Davon Godchaux
Deatrich Wise Jr.
Christian Barmore
Lawrence Guy
Daniel Ekuale
Out:
Sam Roberts, Jeremiah Pharms Jr, Justus Tavai, Carl Davis
With Guy and the Patriots seemingly putting their contract talks aside for the time being, the 13-year veteran once again factors into the team’s plans this season. Godchaux should continue to align as the team’s top interior option, with the third-year lineman Barmore taking the snaps on 4-3 sets. Wise emerged as a key contributor on the pass rush, setting career highs in both tackles (59) and sacks with 7.5 last season. Ekuale provides solid depth in defending the run, as well as the pass rush. Roberts, who continues to make a strong push for a spot, was the most difficult cut among the group.
Defensive Edge/Linebacker (4)
Matthew Judon
Josh Uche
Keion White
Anfernee Jennings
PUP: Trey Flowers
Out:
DaMarcus Mitchell, Diego Fagot
Matthew Judon once again supplies athleticism and aggression to the Patriots pass rush this season, with Uche also acting as a potent weapon. Based on his standout showing against the Texans last week, White should factor into New England’s edge rush, with the chance to make an impact on their run packages, as well. Flowers should begin the season on PUP, as he continues to get into game shape.
Off-the-Ball Linebacker (4)
Ja’Whaun Bentley
Jahlani Tavai
Marte Mapu
Mack Wilson
Out:
Calvin Munson, Joe Giles-Harris
*Raekwon McMillan: Injured Reserve (out for the year)
Give the nature of Bentley’s recent contract extension, he is likely to be the Patriots’ on-field defensive play caller in 2023. Wilson continues to flash some signs of sideline-to-sideline athleticism, giving him the nod over veterans Munson and the newly-acquired Giles-Harris. Mapu has the chance to be a significant contributor, given his versatility and hard-hitting style of play.
Cornerback (5)
Christian Gonzalez
Jack Jones
Jonathan Jones
Marcus Jones
Isaiah Bolden
Out:
Myles Bryant, Ameer Speed, Shaun Wade, Quandre Mosely, Rodney Randle Jr.
Christian Gonzalez is the heir apparent as the Pats top lockdown corner — which Jonathan Jones at the other perimeter corner. Jon tied for the team lead in interceptions (alongside the recently-retired Devin McCourty) with four. Despite the recent legal troubles for second-year cornerback Jack Jones, the Pats will likely retain his services. Perhaps the biggest surprise is retaining the rookie Bolden over the veteran Bryant. Though the Jackson State product has some first-year growing pains to bear, his potential in the secondary, as well as on kick returns make him worthy of the final spot on the depth chart.
Safety (5)
Kyle Dugger
Adrian Phillips
Jabrill Peppers
Jalen Mills
Joshuah Bledsoe
Out:
Brad Hawkins
The challenge of filling the shoes of 12-time team captain Devin McCourty will apparently fall on Mills. The veteran defensive back looked right at home at safety during the Pats preseason opener. Dugger was New England’s standout at strong, earning two interception returns and one fumble recovery for a touchdown last season. Phillips once again served as the team’s hybrid linebacker/safety, while Peppers assumed the role of backfield enforcer. Bledsoe’s versatility and agressive style earns him a spot
Specialists (3)
K Chad Ryland
LS Joe Cardona
P Bryce Baringer
Core Special Teams (3)
Matthew Slater
Brendan Schooler
Chris Board
PUP: Cody Davis
Out:
Nick Folk, Corliss Waitman, Tucker Addington
Despite being one of their most reliable scorers over the past few seasons, the Pats jettison the veteran Folk for rookie Chad Ryland as their kicker. New England will also feature a new punter in the form of fellow rookie Bryce Baringer. On coverage teams, the Patriots added former Detroit Lions special teamer Chris Board, while retaining the services of veteran Cody Davis via the PUP list. Still, the return of special teams stalwart Matthew Slater remains their most significant move of the offseason.
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