The New England Patriots moved one step closer to finalizing their roster as they wrapped up the 20th practice of the summer behind Gillette Stadium, the last session before the NFL’s roster-cut deadline. By Tuesday at 4 p.m. ET, all teams must be under the 53-player limit.
Monday’s practice showed another busy day for attendance, with 13 players listed as non-participants — a net increase of two from Sunday. Absent were wide receivers Ja’Lynn Polk, Kendrick Bourne and Efton Chism; running back Terrell Jennings; offensive lineman Cole Strange; linebackers Anfernee Jennings, Jahlani Tavai and Jack Gibbens; cornerback Christian Gonzalez; and safety Marcus Epps. Roster-exempt players included defensive lineman David Olajiga, edge Bradyn Swinson and cornerback Kobee Minor.
In addition, guard Layden Robinson, who wasn’t spotted on Sunday, has been waived with an injury designation. If he isn’t claimed off waivers, the 2024 fourth-round pick will revert to New England’s injured reserve list.
Patriots coach Mike Vrabel met with the media ahead of Monday’s session and was asked about Gonzalez’s absence. “He’s working hard to get healthy,” Vrabel said. “That’s what I try to remind you guys all the time, that will be my stance on injuries… Once they recover from something that they’re working through — especially if it’s been in training camp, if you look at this specific situation, there is some conditioning that’s involved. I think that’s probably different for each guy. In my own personal experience, you can only ride the bike so long or do the stair climb or something. You actually have to come out and put pads on, run, and get into football conditioning. Whatever that takes, that takes. I’ve said that to every player that is not out there with us right now.”
To reach the 53-man roster by Tuesday afternoon, the Patriots have several avenues to consider. One option is placing players on injured reserve, including two who can be designated as eligible to return. This approach would allow the team to preserve roster flexibility while those players work back to full health.
Commentary and context:
– The list of absences continues to shape the Patriots’ depth chart over the final days of camp, particularly at wide receiver, linebacker and defensive back.
– The decision on Layden Robinson adds to the ongoing process of trimming depth with an eye toward health and future availability.
– Vrabel’s remarks underscore a practical emphasis on football conditioning as players transition from general training to on-field football1 activity, which can influence when and how quickly injured players are cleared to practice fully.
– The looming deadline will force the Patriots to balance immediate needs with long-term health, particularly if they opt to place players on injured reserve with return designations.
Summary:
The Patriots are in the final stage of roster shaping, weighing health, conditioning, and depth as they approach the 53-man limit. With several players still sidelined and the possibility of IR-with-return, decisions in the next 24 hours will determine the make-up of the team heading into the regular season.
Positive note:
There remains confidence in the evaluation process and in players’ ability to return to health and contribute once they’re cleared, providing room for growth and potential surprises when the final cuts come.