Patriots 53-man roster projection: Offensive youth movement on display originally appeared on NBC Sports Boston
FOXBORO — It’s that time again. With another preseason game in the books, let’s have a look at how the Patriots’ roster could look when their numbers have to be reduced down to 53 active players.
No changes here compared to our last projection. Perhaps the Patriots would consider Bailey Zappe as a practice-squad addition if he passes through waivers. Give him credit for being ready to go Thursday after getting zero competitive practice snaps in the joint session with the Eagles on Tuesday.
This is a team that will value hard-charging runners. They have that in Harris, who has been the No. 3 back for this team throughout the summer. Hasty has also shown some value as both a runner and a receiver and did enough on Thursday to warrant consideration here.
Depending on the day, we may have either Thornton or Kayshon Boutte in that sixth spot. This time around, it’s Thornton, who continues to get starter reps in practice and in games.
He was on the field with Osborn and Douglas to begin the Eagles game, and his speed could earn him a spot on the roster despite the fact he’s been dealing with a soft-tissue injury lately.
Pretty straightforward grouping here. Henry missed Thursday’s game but his absence isn’t expected to be an extended one. Even if he’s not fully healthy for Week 1, he likely won’t be so banged up that he’s not included on the initial active roster.
This may end up being more about roles than roster spots. Will Lowe — who had a difficult night Thursday — remain a starter ahead of Week 1? Will the Patriots try Onwenu at tackle and allow Layden Robinson to get some first-team reps alongside Andrews? Still a fluid situation here.
Nice work from Slye against the Eagles by drilling both of his field goals, including a 51-yarder in the second quarter. He gets the edge at kicker over Chad Ryland for this week.
For a defense that is going to be focused on…
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Author : NBC Sports Boston
Publish date : 2024-08-16 13:03:32
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