Patriots OTA Observations: New Linebacker, Kicker Spotted At Practice

FOXBORO, Mass. — The New England Patriots sported a couple new faces on the practice field Thursday.

A new linebacker and a new kicker were spotted during organized team activities Thursday. The Patriots haven’t announced who was signed yet, but the team currently has two free spots on their roster after releasing cornerback Eric Patterson and reportedly cutting tight end Tim Wright. Veteran kicker Stephen Gostkowski didn’t take any reps with the new kicker on board.

The Patriots took it easy in their final OTA session open to the media. Quarterback Tom Brady only went through half-speed 7-on-7 drills, and Jimmy Garoppolo only participated in positional drills. Third-string QB Garrett Gilbert saw some full-speed 11-on-11 reps. Third-down back James White dropped a pass during half-speed 7-on-7s.

The Patriots were low on linebackers with starters Jamie Collins, Dont’a Hightower and Jerod Mayo out. Top reserves Dane Fletcher and Chris White also were absent for practice, giving James Morris and Dekota Watson increased reps at the position.

Brady worked individually in goal-line drills with Scott Chandler and Rob Gronkowski for the third consecutive week.

Second-year cornerback Malcolm Butler was back on the field and didn’t appear to have moved down the depth chart in his two-week absence. Butler, Logan Ryan, Bradley Fletcher and Robert McClain all appear to be competing for starting roles.

Former Patriot Sammy Morris worked closely with the running backs in a coaching capacity.

Thumbnail photo via Doug Kyed/NESN