Patriots reportedly not done adding to the roster as cutdown deadline looms

In typical Bill Belichick form, the Patriots are looking to add to their roster as the roster cutdown deadline looms at 4 p.m. on Tuesday.

They do say when the rest of the league zigs, New England zags, right?

That's precisely what the head coach and general manager have done over the last few days, as he traded for two offensive linemen despite the rush to trim the roster down to the final 53 players. But the moves made sense and were desperately needed since it was evident the backups would not be enough depth from how they performed during the preseason.

But according to Boston Sports Journal's Greg Bedard, Belichick isn't done addressing other positions of need.

In an article posted late Sunday night, Bedard cited sources to reveal the Patriots are still looking to add some more help on offense in receivers and tight ends but also hoping to add another nose tackle.

"The Patriots are not done patching the holes on offense. What else are they looking for? … According to league sources, the Patriots are looking hard at: tight end, nose tackle, receiver."

If the rumors are true, it's interesting that the team isn't satisfied with the receiving corps in particular. It's an area Belichick didn't address in the draft until the sixth round, which was a shocking move for most.

It appears despite the impressive performances from rookies Kayshon Boutte and Demario Douglas this summer, they're not satisfied with their options for the upcoming season. But who are available free agents that would be worth picking up just days before the first game of the year?

If it's not a free agent signing, would Belichick really attempt a trade at this point? And if so, who is on his radar? There are certainly dream scenarios that have been floating around for months, but they all seem unlikely, especially when considering Belichick would be making the move.

Regarding tight ends, Bedard notes the hope is to bring in more of a blocking tight end because Hunter Henry alone probably isn't wise. We know Mike Gesicki is not an elite blocker and will primarily be used as more of a jumbo receiver, so adding a blocker helps the tight end room while simultaneously improving the offensive line.

"The Patriots need another experienced and real option behind Hunter Henry and Mike Gesicki. One name to keep an eye on, due to a coaching change: Tommy Tremble, a third-round pick of the Panthers in 2021. He would automatically be the best blocker at TE, and he’s solid in the other areas. He seems to be on the way out."

As far as adding another nose tackle, Bedard expects the Patriots will make a waiver claim once teams begin to make their cuts on Tuesday. It seems obvious since they picked up Marquan McCall last week but cut him after he failed his physical.

Seeing who will become the latest additions will be interesting, mainly how Belichick handles the wide receiver room. It's hard to imagine any game-changing receiver will become available through the waiver wire or free agency, but maybe that's not the type of player he's looking to add.

Regardless, it's fair to assume the Patriots will carry a lot of receivers this year, as most project it will be at least six, and offensive linemen. We'll just have to wait until 4 p.m. on Tuesday to find out.