Patriots Make Roster Change Before Playoff Matchup With Chargers

The New England Patriots made some slight roster changes prior to their wild-card matchup with the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday.

New England announced that defensive tackle Jeremiah Pharms Jr. was signed to the practice squad and cornerback Brandon Crossley was released from the practice squad on Tuesday.

Pharms, 29, has been in and out of the organization for several seasons, with his most recent stint ending when he was released from the active roster on Jan. 3. Pharms spent three months on the practice squad earlier this season, being elevated for games against the Cincinnati Bengals and New York Giants before earning the active roster promotion on Dec. 27.

Crossley, 24, was originally signed as an undrafted free agent following the 2025 NFL Draft, and was signed to the practice squad on Aug. 27, released from the practice squad on Aug. 28 and re-signed to the practice squad on Nov. 26.

The Patriots’ active roster is currently full, meaning there could be another move made in order to activate cornerback Alex Austin from injured reserve before the deadline on Saturday.