Patriots leave Julian Edelman on IR, activate two from practice squad
By Alex Barth, 985TheSportsHub.com
Julian Edelman won’t suit up for the Patriots Monday night against the Bills. In fact, his season may be over.
Late Monday afternoon, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reported the team had no intentions to activate Edelman from IR for their Week 16 meeting with the Bills. “It’s unlikely that he plays next week. Edelman’s season is almost certainly over,” Rapoport added.
Edelman was place on IR in late October – days before the Patriots’ first meeting with the Bills. This was due to a knee procedure, and the reports at the time indicated it wasn’t expected to be season ending. Yet with the Patriots now eliminated from playoff contention, it’s hard to make a good argument to rush him back.
It’s possible Edelman has played his final game in a Patriots uniform. He technically has one more year on his contract, but there’s an out that would save the team about $4 million if he’s let go this offseason. With a potential retooling of the offense on the way, the team could look to move on from the 34-year-old a year early.
MORE: What to watch for in Patriots-Bills
The team made a handful of other roster moves leading up to Monday’s game. Defensive lineman Nick Thurman and rookie linebacker Cassh Maluia were both temporarily promoted from the practice squad.
In addition, the Patriots signed center Marcus Martin to the 53-man roster. A third-round pick by the San Francisco 49ers in 2014, Martin has spent the last few years mostly on injured reserve. He began the season with the Detroit Lions, and played two games before being released last week.
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Alex Barth is a writer and digital producer for 985TheSportsHub.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of 98.5 The Sports Hub, Beasley Media Group, or any subsidiaries. Thoughts? Comments? Questions? Looking for a podcast guest? Let him know on Twitter @RealAlexBarth or via email at [email protected].
