The Patriots began filling out their practice squad on Wednesday.
As the New England Patriots continued to tinker with their 53-man roster on Wednesday, they also began the process of putting together their 16-man practice squad.
In total, New England added 16 players to their developmental team — all of which were with the team during training camp this past summer. One spot should remain, however, due to the use of the International Pathway Program.
Here are the top storylines regarding the team’s initial practice squad.
Draft picks stay
New England’s most notable release on cut down day was fifth-round draft pick Bradyn Swinson, who was taken 146th overall just four months ago. Swinson, who was passed on the depth chart by undrafted pass rusher Elijah Ponder, went unclaimed on waivers before re-signing on the practice squad.
He was joined by seventh-round selection Kobee Minor — the lone two draftees that did not make the initial 53-man squad.
Strong summer performers
In addition to Swinson, fellow edge rusher Truman Jones may have been one of the more surprise cuts on Tuesday. The Harvard product had strong flashes this training camp as a pass rusher and the team will now continue to work with him on the practice squad — where he ended last season. Also on defense, cornerback Brandon Crossley stays after being impressive in preseason action and being around the football often in camp.
On offense, wide receivers Jeremiah Webb and John Jiles remain on the development team. Both players made the most of their opportunities in the preseason which earned unprompted praise from head coach Mike Vrabel at various points.
Offensive line depth
After keeping nine offensive lineman on their 53-man roster, New England’s developmental squad features three additional reserve options. That includes former B.C. Eagles Jack Conley and Alec Lindstrom, who will provide additional center depth as Conley played both tackle and guard spots this offseason.
Guard Mehki Butler, who had some intriguing play this summer, then wrapped up the group up front.
Pathway player
Defensive lineman David Olajiga did not count against the Patriots 90-man roster this summer as he was a member of the International Pathway Program. Now on the practice squad, Olajiga, who began his football career in high school at The John Fisher School in London, England, will not count against the 16-player total as he was assigned with his international pathway program player status. Olajiga spent last season on the Rams practice squad.
Spot remaining
With Olajiga keeping his exemption as part of the NFL International Pathway Program and not counting against the 16-player total, the Patriots have just one spot remaining on their development team. The expectation is that spot will go to wide receiver Javon Baker, who was released on Wednesday after making the initial 53-man roster, if he clears waivers.
No kicker
New England rolled with rookie Andy Borregales as their starter to enter the season, but the thought of retaining Parker Romo as insurance after a strong summer seemed like a possibility. However, the lack of Romo on the developmental team puts the job solely in the rookie’s possession.
“I thought it was competitive,” Mike Vrabel said of the competition. “I thought Parker really improved from the spring to the summer, and I think just the entire body of work, we felt like Andy was going to be our kicker. Again, I appreciate Parker’s competitiveness and how he worked, and I wish him well. Those are always difficult decisions, and again, we’re going to do everything we can to support Andy, and he knows he’s got to make them. That’s the job of the kicker. You’ve got to make them, and I expect that he will.”
Category: General Sports
