The New England Patriots have made some notable roster additions ahead of their preseason opener against the Houston Texans. With 88 spots already filled on their 90-man NFL roster, the team signed defensive end Trey Flowers on Tuesday and linebacker Joe Giles-Harris on Wednesday to complete their roster.
Flowers, who previously played for the Patriots from 2017-2019 and contributed to three consecutive Super Bowl appearances, returns to the team. His experience and impact on the field make him a valuable addition to the roster.
Giles-Harris, on the other hand, has spent time with the Jacksonville Jaguars and the Buffalo Bills. While he has shown promise as a special teams contributor, he faces tough competition on the 3-4 linebacking depth chart.
The Patriots’ unofficial depth chart currently lists Matthew Judon, Josh Uche, and Ja’Whaun Bentley as the first-unit linebackers. Behind them are Anfernee Jennings, DaMarcus Mitchell, and Jahlani Tavai. Ronnie Perkins and Raekown McMillan are listed as third-string, with Chris Board, Mack Wilson, Marte Mapu, Calvin Munson, and Olakunle Fatukasi as fourth-string options.
Although the Patriots have depth at the linebacker position, the success of their starters will ultimately define the unit. Judon, who led the team with 15.5 sacks last season, has established himself as a premier pass-rusher. Uche, after a slow start in the NFL, showcased his potential with 11.5 sacks in 2022. Bentley, known for his ability to rush effectively, was ranked No. 16 among all linebackers by Pro Football Focus.
Considering the Patriots’ strong linebacker lineup, Giles-Harris faces an uphill battle to secure a spot on the final 53-man roster. However, his special teams experience could work in his favor.
In other news from Patriots camp, rookies have been assigned their jersey numbers. First-round pick cornerback Christian Gonzalez will now wear No. 19, while second-round pick edge rusher Keion White will sport No. 99. Marte Mapu, a fourth-round pick and a linebacker/safety hybrid, now has No. 30.
Wide receivers Kayshon Boutte and Demario Douglas, both sixth-round picks, will wear Nos. 80 and 81, respectively. Punter Bryce Baringer, a sixth-round pick from Michigan State, selected No. 9, the same number worn by Pro Bowl veteran Matthew Judon. Judon humorously commented, WTH (What the heck), when he saw the announcement on Instagram.
With their roster complete and rookies settling into their assigned numbers, the Patriots are gearing up for their preseason opener. Fans eagerly anticipate seeing how the team’s new additions, including Trey Flowers, will perform on the field. As the Patriots continue their preparations, their linebacking unit remains a focal point for success moving forward.
