Patriots' moves come at the perfect time to fix major depth concerns

"The New England Patriots have made a flurry of practice squad additions over the past week, greatly improving the team's depth. At this point in the season, players are worn down, and the practice squad can offer fresh options during the home stretch. New England released WR Brandon Smith, OT Sebastian Gutierrez, and DT Fabien Lovett from the practice squad this week. None of these moves came as big surprises, as none had seen elevations to the active roster this season. The team also released RB D'Ernest Johnson from the active roster, later re-signing him to the practice squad. Johnson had been the team's third in the depth chart after injuries to Antonio Gibson and Terrell Jennings, while also operating as the kick returner. He had 14 carries for 25 yards this year and averaged 25.6 yards per kick return."

"To fill the additional practice squad openings, the team signed OT Lorenz Metz, WR Trent Sherfield, and ED Darrell Taylor. Metz, 28, entered the league in 2023 with the Bears after spending his college days with the Cincinnati Bearcats. A German international, Metz stands 6-foot-9 and weighs 335 pounds. Metz will be one to watch in the preseason next year. While Metz is a less established player, both Sherfield and Taylor could prove useful during New England's playoff run. Sherfield, 29, played in 12 games with the Broncos and Cardinals, finishing with 3 catches for 21 yards. His best season came back in 2022 with the Dolphins, totaling 30 catches for 417 yards and a pair of touchdowns. He has 89 catches for 1,034 and 6 touchdowns in his career."

The Patriots added several players to the practice squad and shuffled multiple bodies to increase depth for the season's home stretch. The team released wide receiver Brandon Smith, offensive tackle Sebastian Gutierrez, and defensive tackle Fabien Lovett from the practice squad. Running back D'Ernest Johnson was cut from the active roster and re-signed to the practice squad; Johnson served as the third running back and kick returner, with 14 carries for 25 yards and a 25.6-yard kick return average. Cornerback Miles Battle was re-signed to the practice squad after a prior release. The team signed OT Lorenz Metz, WR Trent Sherfield, and edge defender Darrell Taylor, with Metz noted for his 6-foot-9, 335-pound frame.

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