New England
Patriots

The New England Patriots are actively shaping their 2026 roster following the league-mandated cutdown deadline. Head coach Mike Vrabel provided insight into the team's strategic waiver wire pickups and the rationale behind several roster moves. The Patriots claimed tight end Cameron Latu and linebacker Darius Muasau off waivers, bolstering their depth at critical positions. Latu, a former third-round pick, brings versatility as an in-line blocker and potential fullback, creating competition at tight end alongside established players like Hunter Henry and Eli Raridon. Muasau adds experienced depth at linebacker, having played significant snaps on defense and special teams during his time with the Giants. Vrabel highlighted Latu's special teams prowess and Muasau's familiarity with the defensive coaching staff as key factors in their acquisitions. In a notable series of moves, the Patriots re-signed interior offensive lineman Ben Brown to the active roster after an earlier release. Brown, who signed a contract extension last December, had been sidelined by a preseason injury. His return provides crucial depth to the offensive line, a unit that also saw the signing of Jake Kubas to the practice squad. The team's moves indicate a focus on solidifying the offensive interior, despite parting ways with other players like K.J. Britt, who was released but later brought back to the practice squad. The Patriots also officially announced a series of practice squad signings, adding players like defensive tackle Jalen Hunt, linebackers K.J. Britt and Jose Ramirez, and several others to round out the developmental roster. Notable additions to the practice squad include punter Mitch Wishnowsky, who is expected to provide cover for the injured Bryce Baringer, and offensive tackle Lorenz Metz, who occupies an international player exemption spot. Defensive tackle Cory Durden is projected for an increased role heading into his fourth NFL season, with scouting reports indicating his readiness for a larger workload. The team also made official the signings of linebacker Erick Hunter and offensive lineman Ben Brown to the active roster, bringing the team to the 53-player limit. These signings followed the news of several former Patriots finding new homes across the league after being released. Six captains were also named for the upcoming season, underscoring leadership continuity and new additions to the core group. Quarterback Drake Maye, tight end Hunter Henry, offensive tackle Morgan Moses, linebacker Robert Spillane, cornerback Marcus Jones, and safety Kevin Byard III were selected to lead the team. This group reflects a blend of returning leaders and key contributors. Running back TreVeyon Henderson remains sidelined with an ankle injury, missing the first regular-season practice. Tight end Cameron Latu was also absent from the practice field as he integrated with the team. The Patriots continue to manage their roster with an eye toward the regular season opener, with Vrabel acknowledging the dynamic nature of personnel decisions in the post-cutdown period. Several players, including K.J. Britt and linebacker Khalil Jacobs, have been moved to injured reserve, necessitating further roster adjustments.