NFL
New England Patriots complete 53-man roster for the 2024 season
The 53-man roster is now set after Jerod Mayo and Eliot Wolf made their initial Patriots roster cuts on Tuesday, which included a few surprising moves.
The New England Patriots have finalized their roster with the last 53 players, indicating the upcoming start of the NFL season. The process included some unexpected cuts, placing several players on injured reserve and the physically unable to perform (PUP) list. Despite these changes, the roster shows promise and has received a respectable “B” grade in early analysts’ evaluations.
Key Patriots roster moves and surprises
The release of offensive tackle Kellen Diesch, who signed just last week, was unexpected. However, there’s a chance he could return via the practice squad. This path is also likely for others, including wide receiver Matt Landers and offensive lineman Liam Fornette, both of whom have been linked to practice squad rumors.
Wide receiver David Wallace, a standout from Division III Randolph-Macon College, did not make the cut. Despite his impressive preseason speed, it seems he may not yet be ready for the NFL. However, his potential value on special teams could secure him a practice squad position.
The release of promising offensive lineman Antonio Mafi raised eyebrows. Although he showed potential during training camp, Mafi couldn’t secure a spot on the final roster. Other notable cuts included safety AJ Thomas, cornerback Shaun Wade, defensive end Jonathan Russell, and kicker Chad Ryland. The release of Ryland, whom Bill Belichick traded up for in last year’s draft, was astonishing.
Linebacker Joe Giles-Harris, who impressed with five tackles and a pass deflection in the final preseason game, was another unexpected cut. His standout preseason play made his release a tough pill for the Patriots fans, though a practice squad spot could still be in his future.
New England’s final roster composition
The Patriots made a surprising decision by keeping only three running backs and cutting Kevin Harris in favor of JaMycal Hasty. Hasty earned his spot due to his hard-nosed running and consistency during the preseason. This decision reflects a shift towards a more decisive passing game, as evidenced by keeping seven wide receivers, including Kayshon Boutte and Tyquan Thornton.
New England Patriots 2024 roster:
- QB (3): Jacoby Brissett, Drake Maye, Joe Milton III
- RB (3): Rhamondre Stevenson, Antonio Gibson, JaMychal Hasty
- WR (7): Javon Baker, Kayshon Boutte, DeMario Douglas, K.J. Osborn, Ja'Lynn Polk, Jalen Reagor, Tyquan Thornton
- TE (3): Hunter Henry, Austin Hooper, Jaheim Bell
- OL (9): David Andrews, Michael Jordan, Nick Leverett, Vederian Lowe, Chukwuma Okorafor, Mike Onwenu, Layden Robinson, Sidy Sow, Caedan Wallace
- DL (6): Daniel Ekuale, Davon Godchaux, Trysten Hill, Jeremiah Pharms Jr., Keion White, Deatrich Wise Jr.
- LB (7): Ja'Whaun Bentley, Christian Elliss, Anfernee Jennings, Raekwon McMillan, Jahlani Tavai, Joshua Uche, Oshane Ximines
- CB (7): Alex Austin, Isaiah Bolden, Marcellas Dial Jr., Christian Gonzalez, Jonathan Jones, Marcus Jones, Marco Wilson
- S (4): Jabrill Peppers, Kyle Dugger, Jaylinn Hawkins, Dell Pettus
- PUP/IR (5): Kendrick Bourne, Cole Strange, Sione Takitaki, Marte Mapu, Christian Barmore
In the quarterback room, Jacoby Brissett leads the pack with Drake Maye and Joe Milton. However, Maye’s strong preseason performances suggest that the rookie could challenge the starting job.
On the defensive side, the Patriots linebacker corps remains strong despite injuries, with Christian Ellis making the roster despite an injury in the final preseason game. The defensive line, anchored by Keion White and Deatrich Wise Jr., looks formidable, with White projected to have a breakout season.
Conclusions and expectations
While things aren’t final, waivers and potential late additions in free agency could allow for change-ups in the coming days. This team looks pretty complete.
Despite parting ways with some beloved players and promising talents, the meticulously curated 53-man roster of the Patriots oozes versatility and readiness for the forthcoming season.
Now, we will see how these individuals display their talent on the field and whether they possess the capability to move the Patriots back into playoff contention.