The New England Patriots boosted their special teams before Sunday night’s matchup with the Houston Texans.
The Patriots signed linebacker/special teamer Eric Martin off their practice squad, according to the league’s transaction wire. The Patriots signed running back Trey Williams to their practice squad.
Martin has played three games with the Patriots this season, recording two tackles. He began the 2015 season on the active roster, was cut Sept. 12, signed to the practice squad Sept. 16, released Sept. 25, re-signed to the practice squad Oct. 1, signed to the active roster Nov. 12, waived Nov. 27 and re-signed to the practice squad Dec. 9.
The Patriots allowed touchdowns on a punt block and punt return in their Week 13 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles. It was their worst special teams showing in years, and Martin could improve the unit.
The 6-foot-2, 250-pound defender ran a 4.53-second 40-yard dash coming out of Nebraska in 2013 with a 6.69-second 3-cone and 3.97-second short shuttle.
The Patriots claimed Williams off waivers from the Dallas Cowboys on Dec. 1. He was waived Thursday.
The Patriots’ 53-man roster is full. They have an open spot on their 10-man practice squad.
Thumbnail photo via Winslow Townson/USA TODAY Sports Images
