3 Patriots practice squad additions who will likely see the field this season
The Patriots have finalized their roster for the 2024 season and have nearly filled out their entire practice squad, with just two spots remaining before the season begins. Most of those signed were cut during the roster deadline the day before, but a few new additions were also brought in.
Given that their projected offense is considered far from elite, it wouldn't be shocking to see some of their more prominent offensive players activated on game day, especially for their weakest groups on the offensive line and receiving corps.
But it's also important to utilize the talent they signed who can help on special teams, something the Patriots need to get under control after a few years of uncharacteristically lousy performance from the unit.
Three players stand out as the likeliest call-ups for game day and could be part of the 53-man roster multiple times during the 2024 season.
3 Patriots practice squad additions who will likely see the field this season
C Bryan Hudson
It was apparent during the preseason that the Patriots lacked depth at center, as David Andrews watched the games from the sideline. The players used in his absence became a liability during the three games by botching snaps and creating issues for the quarterbacks, which led to some negative plays.
With that in mind, it's fair to assume we will see Bryan Hudson activated from the practice squad at some point during the season, especially if (for some reason) Andrews has to miss a game.
The 2024 UDFA spent the offseason with the Lions but became a casualty of roster cutdowns at last week's deadline. Fortunately, their loss becomes the Patriots gain, as Hudson comes with great experience on the offensive line and even an award winning performance from his final season at Louisville in 2023.
He was the best offensive lineman in the ACC, earning him a First-Team All-ACC selection. Because he allowed just one sack, three quarterback hits, and 10 hurries on 927 total snaps, he was awarded the 2023 Jacobs Blocking Trophy, given to the best blocker in the ACC.
If he can maintain that level of performance, he could become a significant part of the Patriots offensive line and a pillar at center under the mentorship of Andrews.
WR Jalen Reagor
Although the Patriots kept six wide receivers on their roster (not including Kendrick Bourne, who will start the season on PUP), the likelihood of a receiver being activated from the practice squad might be slim. However, Jalen Reagor's experience within the offense and his versatility on special teams make him a leading candidate to spend time on the main roster this season.
They decided to cut their leading returner, David Wallis and chose not to re-sign him to the practice squad as solid insurance. That creates a lot of questions about who will fill that role, especially since using starters is not ideal for any team.
It could be that very reason that brings Reagor up to the roster for a gameday or two, maybe even more. He isn't necessarily an elite special teamer, but he brings solid production that is worthy of consideration given the Patriots' other options for the role.
CB Isaiah Bolden
Another leading candidate to be brought up for his special teams experience is cornerback Isaiah Bolden, who was a shocking release during roster cutdowns.
After a standout offseason, one so good that even Jerod Mayo couldn't help but rave about him, Bolden showed all the tools needed to become an integral part of the Patriots roster. His speed and athleticism stood out the most, prompting the belief that he was well on his way to carving a role for himself for the 2024 season.
Instead, he was cut and re-signed to the practice squad, and there's no reason to believe his talents won't be utilized at some point during the season.