ORIGINAL STORY: Two days after being cut, rookie linebacker Cassh Maluia is returning to the New England Patriots’ roster.
The Patriots plan to promote Maluia from their practice squad, according to a report Monday from NFL Media’s Tom Pelissero.
To make room for Maluia on the 53-man roster, the Patriots are placing defensive tackle Beau Allen on injured reserve.
Allen, viewed as a likely Danny Shelton replacement when he signed in March, has been sidelined since last month with an undisclosed injury and has yet to practice in front of reporters since joining the Patriots. He will be eligible to return after three weeks.
Maluia, a sixth-round pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, landed on the practice squad after being waived during final roster cuts and passing unclaimed through waivers.
The 21-year-old Wyoming product performed well in Patriots training camp. He rejoins a youthful group of inside linebackers that includes third-year pro (and first-year co-captain) Ja’Whaun Bentley and rookies Josh Uche (second round) and Anfernee Jennings (third round).
Maluia also should contribute on special teams for the Patriots, who open the regular season Sunday against the Miami Dolphins at Gillette Stadium.
UPDATE (6:30 p.m. ET): The Patriots announced Monday that they have placed defensive tackle Beau Allen and running back Damien Harris on the injured reserve list.
New England has signed linebacker Cassh Maluia and running back J.J. Taylor to the 53-man roster from the practice squad.
Thumbnail photo via New England Patriots
