The Patriots cut three players on Sunday as the first of the NFL’s three cutdown days approaches. Wide receiver Marvin Hall, tight end David Wells, and EDGE rusher Rashod Berry were all released before Sunday’s practice, as first reported by Doug Kyed of PFF and Jim McBride of The Boston Globe.
Hall was originally signed by the Patriots back in June. He had spent most of the preseason working with the kick returns units in addition to the wide receivers. During Thursday night’s preseason opener he played a team-low three snaps, which included a muffed punt.
Wells signed with the Patriots right before camp, after spending a brief amount of time on their practice squad last season. He played 12 snaps on Thursday, but didn’t record any statistics.
As for Berry, his release comes as somewhat of a surprise. A converted tight end, he seemed to be coming into his own early in training camp after seeing minimal NFL action in his rookie year in 2020. Berry played 29 defensive snaps against Washington, recording two tackles. He’d also spent considerable time working with the Patriots’ special teams unit during practice.
UPDATE: The Patriots have also released offensive lineman Jerald Hawkins, according to ESPN’s Mike Reiss. Hawkins did not play in the preseason opener.
Unlike previous years where the roster went from 90 players to 53 after the final preseason game, this year the NFL has implemented staggered cuts. The first stage begins on Tuesday at 4:00 p.m., when the roster limit drops to 85 players. That means the Patriots have at least one more roster move to make between now and then.
MORE: How many Patriots roster spots are truly up for grabs?
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.