Patriots evaluate roster depth in preseason finale against Browns

New England will close its preseason on Thursday night in Cleveland, facing the Browns while head coach Mike Vrabel stressed the importance of keeping the team healthy and preserving depth ahead of the regular season. "I do not think we have a very deep team, so I think we have to make sure that we are preparing our football team and that we are doing everything we can to keep our best players available," Vrabel said after Saturday's game.

The Patriots have yet to play their starters, including quarterback Drake Maye, who remain sidelined as the club prioritizes health. Injuries have also affected the running back group, with Lan Larison and Jam Miller limited and TreVeyon Henderson nursing a foot/ankle issue, potentially increasing the workload for Hassan Haskins, who is being considered for the third-string role.

Wide receiver depth is under review after the trade of Kayshon Boutte and the release of John Jiles and Jeremiah Webb. Undrafted players Kyle Williams, Efton Chism III, Nick DeGennaro, Cameron Dorner and Kyle Dixon are competing for practice-squad spots, with DeGennaro highlighted for a recent game-winning touchdown.

Undrafted tight end Tanner Arkin, who has taken on fullback duties, is expected to see more inline blocking work as the Patriots address the vacancy left by free-agent addition Julian Hill.

On the offensive line, first-round rookie Caleb Lomu, who has been cross-trained at both tackle positions, will aim to finish the preseason strongly, while fellow rookie Dametrious Crownover has drawn attention for his run-blocking ability.

Defensive edge rusher Gabe Jacas, a second-round pick, continues to develop after missing spring and early camp, with outside linebackers coach Mike Smith noting the need for him to master defensive assignments. Rookie Q Hutchins, who recorded a strip sack in his second preseason game, will also seek a roster spot.

Linebacker depth remains a concern; veteran K.J. Britt and Chad Muma have not solidified starting roles, opening opportunities for sixth-round pick Namdi Obiazor, who has contributed on special teams.

Cornerback competition includes veteran Kindle Vildor and rookie Karon Prunty, who must vie for a roster spot behind established players such as Christian Gonzalez and Marcus Jones.

The Patriots signed punter Matt Haack after an injury to Bryce Baringer, giving Haack his first live-action opportunity in Cleveland while the team evaluates his fit for the upcoming season.