New England Patriots: examining the practice squad

Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports

The New England Patriots have finalized not only their 53-man roster ahead of Thursday’s opener against the Pittsburgh Steelers, but also their practice squad. Here’s a breakdown of the ten players who are just an injury or a good practice away from being upgraded to the active roster.

10. WR Kenbrell Thompkins

The Patriots reluctantly released Thompkins last October, so it’s nice to see him back in New England now that the Oakland Raiders have cut him loose. Thompkins caught 15 passes for 209 yards during his short stint with the silver-and-black, looking like a solid wideout. The addition of Amari Cooper to the roster spelled the end of Thompkins’ time in the Bay Area.

Expect Thompkins to reach the active roster before the end of the month. With Reggie Wayne out of the picture and Brandon LaFell on the PUP until Week 7, there is room for a guy like Thompkins, Chris Harper or Aaron Dobson to make some noise as the No. 3 receiver.

9. WR Nathan Palmer

Palmer has been bouncing around the NFL since 2012. “Bouncing” really is the best way to describe Palmer’s career thus far, as he’s been a member of the San Francisco 49ers, Indianapolis Colts, Miami Dolphins and Denver Broncos in three seasons.

He has only one catch to his name, and it was for a four-yard loss back in his rookie year with Indy. Consider Palmer the lowest peg on the Pats’ wide receiver pecking order right now.

Next: 8. Dax Swanson & 7. Brandon King