Patriots make necessary roster cuts after latest signings
The New England Patriots had a busy day on Saturday. After signing two former USFL players, the Patriots had too many players on the roster. But not anymore. The Patriots have released linebacker Olakunle Fatukasi and rookie safety Jourdan Heilig, the team announced. Fatukasi was signed by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as an undrafted free agent […]
The New England Patriots had a busy day on Saturday.
After signing two former USFL players, the Patriots had too many players on the roster. But not anymore.
The Patriots have released linebacker Olakunle Fatukasi and rookie safety Jourdan Heilig, the team announced.
Fatukasi was signed by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as an undrafted free agent in May 2022 and appearing in 13 games before being waived in December. He spent the remainder of the season on the Denver Broncos practice squad before being signed by the Patriots in January.
As for Heilig, he was signed by the Patriots in May as an undrafted free agent out of Appalachian State.
Earlier in the week the Patriots reunited with Trey Flowers while also signing Joe Giles-Harris on Wednesday. However while they were making moves on defense, there were clear issues on offense.
The Patriots have been looking to add a veteran running back, having signed USFL running back C.J. Marable following a successful workout. They then signed versatile USFL offensive tackle Micah Vanterpool.
The offensive line has suffered some injuries throughout training camp with Cole Strange and Trent Brown sitting out through most team drills. They also have Mike Onwenu who is on the physically unable to perform list along with tackle Calvin Anderson who is out with a non-football injury.
The run game struggled on Thursday, with the backs having no time to make any moves. By trying to add depth to the offensive line and signing a veteran running back, the Patriots can look to improve their run game.
The Patriots travel to Green Bay this coming week for joint practices and a preseason game against the Packers. This will be the first chance for the two new players to make an impact.
Featured Image via Eric Canha-USA TODAY Sports
