A ‘way too early’ Patriots roster projection
Projecting the 2021 New England Patriots roster based on what we’ve seen at spring practices over the last month.
FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS – SEPTEMBER 13: A view of New England Patriots helmets before the game between the Patriots and the Miami Dolphins at Gillette Stadium on September 13, 2020 in Foxborough, Massachusetts.
Maddie Meyer/Getty ImagesLike the title of this post suggests, it’s simply too early to know for sure how some of the Patriots' positional battles will play out. There haven't even been any padded practices yet, and there won’t be for about a month and a half.
There’s still a long way to go before Bill Belichick needs to make any definitive decisions about his initial 53-man roster. However, with the opportunity to see the 2021 Patriots in person for the first time at spring practices - which wrapped up earlier this week - it’s hard not to start making some projections.
One thing to keep in mind - this is working under the assumption the NFL will go back to the practice squad guidelines they had before the pandemic, or something similar. For instance, limiting veterans, and 10 or 12 spots instead of 16. Once there’s more clarity with those rules, they’ll be reflected in a future roster projection.
NOTE: All players are listed alphabetically in their respective positions.
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 abarth@985TheSportsHub.com.
