New England Patriots: Early 53-Man Roster Projection

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Jan 24, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; New England Patriots wide receiver Julian Edelman (11) with wide receiver Danny Amendola (80) and tight end Rob Gronkowski (87) against the Denver Broncos in the AFC Championship football game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

Wide Receivers (6)

Starters: Julian Edelman, Brandin Cooks

Depth: Chris Hogan, Malcolm Mitchell, Danny Amendola, Matthew Slater

Julian Edelman and Brandin Cooks serve as the Patriots top wide receivers with Chris Hogan rotating in on three-receiver sets. Throughout the year, Malcolm Mitchell’s role will begin to increase as he makes the jump from year one to two. Despite the signing of Andrew Hawkins, Danny Amendola’s job is still safe. As usual, the sixth wide receiver spot goes to special teams ace, Matthew Slater.

Cut: Devin Lucien, Austin Carr*, Cody Hollister*, DeAndrew White

Tight Ends (4)

Starters: Rob Gronkowski, Dwayne Allen

Depth: Matt Lengel, James Develin (FB)

The duo of Rob Gronkowski and Dwayne Allen keeps the position on par with last year’s group. Lengel’s year of experience gives him an advantage over the team’s other tight ends, however, he’s far from a lock to make the team. Jacob Hollister and James O’Shaughnessy create good competition and may outshine the returning tight end. Develin beats out Glenn Gronkowski for the lone fullback spot.

Cut: Jacob Hollister*, James O’Shaughnessy, Sam Cotton*

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