Patriots project thin 53-man roster ahead of final preseason game
New England’s projected 53-man roster shows limited depth at several positions, forcing tough cut decisions before the August 30 deadline.
The Patriots entered the sixth week of training camp with two preseason games completed, but a shortage of depth at multiple spots is expected to force difficult roster moves before the final cut deadline on Aug. 30.
Quarterback depth appears set with Drake Maye as starter, Tommy DeVito as the primary backup and seventh-round rookie Behren Morton likely to remain the emergency third option after a solid performance against Philadelphia.
Running backs Rhamondre Stevenson, TreVeyon Henderson and Hassan Haskins are projected to make the roster, while veteran Jam Miller is expected to join the practice squad.
Fullback Reggie Gilliam, who signed a multi-year deal in March, is slated to stay on the active roster.
The wide-receiver group includes A.J. Brown, Romeo Doubs, DeMario Douglas, Mack Hollins, Kyle Williams and Efton Chism III, with Kayshon Boutte’s trade request adding uncertainty to the mix.
At tight end, Hunter Henry and third-round pick Eli Raridon are projected to start, with undrafted Tanner Arkin providing blocking depth.
Offensive tackle depth features Will Campbell, Morgan Moses, first-round pick Caleb Lomu and second-year Marcus Bryant, though Bryant’s ankle injury could elevate Lomu’s role. Veteran Greg Van Roten was added to back up the interior line after injuries to Ben Brown and Andrew Rupcich.
"The offensive line in the two contests has been a concern, with those groups struggling to pick up stunts and various blitzes," head coach Mike Vrabel said after the Eagles game.
Defensive tackle depth includes Milton Williams, Christian Barmore and Cory Durden, with Durden stepping into the nose-tackle role vacated by Khyiris Tonga.
Outside linebackers Dre’Mont Jones, Elijah Ponder and Gabe Jacas are projected to start, while the Patriots may retain additional edge players on the practice squad.
Linebacker depth features Robert Spillane, Christian Elliss, K.J. Britt and two rookie undrafted free agents, with Chad Muma likely to be cut after underwhelming preseason outings.
Cornerbacks Christian Gonzalez, Marcus Jones, Carlton Davis III, Charles Woods, Karon Prunty and Kindle Vildor round out the projected secondary, with Vildor expected to fill the final spot.
Safety rotation includes Kevin Byard, Craig Woodson, Dell Pettus and John Saunders Jr., the latter earning praise for his preseason performance.
Special teams retain kicker Andy Borregales after a successful field-goal attempt against the Eagles, and the unit adds no new specialists.