Cut Day Decisions Ahead for Belichick

As the cut day deadline approaches, New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick is facing some tough decisions.

Rosters have to be at 53 players by 4 PM EST on Saturday and there is a glut of players trying to make it on to the roster for the Arizona game. Bill Belichick has said in the past that he will not cut a player that he is not willing to lose. So the question becomes which current Patriots on the roster bubble would be potential targets for other teams if they do hit the open market?

Running Back: DJ Foster

The undrafted free agent out of Arizona State ended his preseason on a high note with a largely impressive effort against the Giants. In a show of faith, Bill Belichick sent him straight back out on the field after he lost a second quarter fumble.

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After the draft several teams were eager to sign him and the Patriots won out in the end and some of those teams would potentially like to make another run at Foster. His chances of earning a roster spot were aided slightly when it was revealed Dion Lewis would not be ready to go for week one as he could backup James White as the receiving back on the team.

Wide Receiver: Aaron Dobson

Safe to say that the 2013 draft pick’s career in New England has been thoroughly underwhelming

so far with the inability to stay healthy preventing him from making an impact. The coaching staff’s frustration with him over the last few years might see him squeezed out in a numbers game but his play on the field might see him catch on elsewhere.

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Tight End: AJ Derby

Another August hero, Derby would have been a perfect practice squad candidate had he not made so many good plays over the past four games. Having showcased his pass catching ability he could be a solid backup or third tight end for any team which picks him up. With Rob Gronkowski and Martellus Bennett ahead of him on the depth chart, he will have to beat out offseason signing Clay Harbor and rookie Brice Williams. The fact he would be lost might be enough to get him on the roster.

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Linebacker: Rufus Johnson

An intriguing physical specimen, Johnson has gotten his share of playing time throughout the preseason. He can come in to any team and contribute on special teams right away but with an overflow of that sort of player on the Patriots will likely see him hit the street come cut day.

Next: These 8 players will help Jimmy G win

Stay tuned for more fresh points of analysis here on Musket Fire as we near cut day.