I correctly predicted 48 out of the 50 players on the final 53-man roster. The most surprising cut was RB Kevin Harris. I can see why he was let go, as he shares similar traits with Stevenson and Gibson—all big backs—but lacks breakaway speed. Although his pass-catching has improved, as shown by his touchdown against Washington, it wasn’t enough to secure his spot.
Another player I missed was Edge William Bradley-King, who was also cut. I thought he had done enough to earn a place on the team. On the other hand, I was surprised that CB Marcellas Dial made the roster, likely due to his value on special teams, particularly as a gunner on punt coverage. The Patriots were ranked as the top special teams unit in the preseason.
Michael Jordan seems to have been kept as insurance, especially considering Sidy Sow’s injury, which still needs monitoring.
The team kept seven wide receivers, including Kashon Boutte, KJ Osborn, and Jalen Reagor. Reagor’s special teams value on kickoffs may have contributed to his retention, and Osborn might be getting rewarded for choosing to sign with the team. Although Boutte didn’t play on Sunday, I still expected him to make the roster.
Calvin Anderson and Armon Watts were placed on IR, while Christian Barmore and Marte Mapu were designated for return from IR. There’s still a question of whether Barmore’s designation is as a Non-Football Injury (NFI) or straight IR, as NFI would mean the team wouldn’t have to pay him.
We’ll get a clearer picture of the roster after the waiver claims are announced tomorrow at noon. Some players the team might target include:
– OL Ja’Tyre Carter (G/T)
– DT Albert Huggins
– TE Shane Zylstra
– TE CJ Uzomah
– NT Marguan McCall
– TE EJ Jackson
In terms of unrestricted free agents, possible targets could be:
– WR Donovan Peoples-Jones
– WR Tim Patrick
– WR Terrance Marshall
Brandon Thorn from Trench Warfare ranked Patriots’ Layden Robinson as the #5 rookie offensive lineman in the preseason. After a shaky start against the Commanders, Robinson dominated, leading all rookies with 10 pancake blocks. Caeden Wallace also deserves recognition for his strong performance, playing the entire second half against the Commanders and allowing only one hurry.
CBS Sports is speculating on a potential trade between the Patriots and Cowboys, involving Jon Jones filling in for DaRon Bland, who will be out for at least half the season. The speculation centers around Jones’ age (30) and his impending free agency next year.
Bill Belichick appeared on the Pat McAfee show this week, referring to Massachusetts as “Taxachusetts,” pointing out that the state’s 4% Millionaires Tax could be a factor in why free agents hesitate to sign with the Patriots. With an uncertain QB situation, a first-year head coach, and various other coaching uncertainties, agents are factoring this tax into their decisions. The question remains: Do we want players who are only here for the money?
Jerod Mayo has yet to name a starting QB. I hope it’s Brissett, despite his underwhelming preseason performances.
