Although the New England Patriots have finalized their initial 53-man roster, the lineup is subject to change throughout the season.
Recently, the team claimed four new players off waivers and released four others, just a day after making the final roster cuts. Further roster adjustments are expected before their first regular season game against the Cincinnati Bengals.
There are still many talented players available, including free agents and those on practice squads.
OT Geron Christian
Geron Christian is a seasoned offensive tackle with experience on multiple teams, most recently with the Tennessee Titans during the preseason. However, his time with the Cleveland Browns in 2023 is particularly noteworthy. Christian started nine games last season, working under Patriots’ offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt and offensive line coach Scott Peters.
This familiarity, combined with the Patriots’ need at tackle, could make him an ideal addition. Since he wasn’t picked up by another team after being released during final roster cuts, he’s readily available.*WR Donovan Peoples-Jones
Waived by the Detroit Lions earlier this week, Donovan Peoples-Jones was re-signed to their practice squad. However, the Patriots should seriously consider him. Initially, they had seven wide receivers on their 53-man roster but released one on Wednesday to accommodate new waiver claims.
Peoples-Jones is familiar with Alex Van Pelt’s system, having been drafted by the Browns in 2020. He remained with the team until October 2023, when he was traded to the Lions. Last season, he had just five receptions for 58 yards over eight games. However, the previous year, he recorded 61 catches for 839 yards and three touchdowns under Van Pelt’s guidance.
The Patriots could sign him from the Lions’ practice squad to their active roster.
TE C.J. Uzomah
The Patriots are in need of a blocking tight end, and C.J. Uzomah fits that role, though he also has the ability to catch passes. Uzomah, who was released by the Philadelphia Eagles before the final roster cuts, remains unsigned.
A veteran with nine seasons in the NFL, primarily with the Cincinnati Bengals, Uzomah has played 106 games, totaling 192 receptions for 1,881 yards and 16 touchdowns.
