The Patriots’ 2019 draft class is arguably the most infamous of Bill Belichick’s tenure with the team. Now just four years later, no players from that class remain on the roster.

On Thursday, the Patriots announced the release of offensive tackle Yodny Cajuste. The 27-year-old was the team’s third of three third-round pick in 2019 (101st overall) and the final player from that draft class still on the roster.

• At the time, Cajuste’s selection was viewed as a low-floor, high-ceiling pick. He showed flashses of talent at West Virginia – winning Big 12 Co-Offensive Lineman of the Year in 2018 – but regularly dealt with injuries. Those problems followed him to the NFL, as he missed his first two full seasons on NFI and IR. Even once he did get on the field he struggled to find a rhythm, and played just 17 games with five starts over the last two years.

  Cajuste became a restricted free agent this past spring, and the Patriots tendered him at the lowest level. Because he was signed on that tender, which isn’t guaranteed, his release opens up $2.74 million in cap space while leaving no dead cap money. The Patriots also now have an open spot on their 90-man roster.

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• With Cajuste’s release, it’s now official that none of the players’ taken in the Patriots’ 2019 class will play under second contracts. Some, such as second-round pick Joejuan Williams, third-round picks Chase Winovich and Damien Harris, fourth-round pick Jarrett Stidham, and fifth-round pick Jake Bailey are under contract with other teams. Others’ such as first-round pick N’Keal Harry, remain free agents.

  However, there are still members of that UDFA class with the Patriots. Tackle Calvin Anderson and linebacker Terez Hall were both initially released, but have made their way back to Foxborough and are on the current roster. Other notable members of that UDFA class include Jakobi Meyers and Gunner Olszewski.

  Back in New England, the Patriots’ tackle competition will go on without Cajuste. Those competing for spots are Trent Brown, Riley Reiff, Calvin Anderson, Conor McDermott, Andrew Stueber, and rookie Sidy Sow.

• 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].

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