Mike Vrabel is right about the Patriots’ lack of depth. So how can they fix it? FOXBOROUGH, Mass. — The New England Patriots’ 2025 season was defined by consistency, with the same starting offensive linemen, quarterback, running backs, and wide receivers from the season opener still in place by the Super Bowl. The team’s success was bolstered by remarkable health, as their depth was rarely tested throughout the year. However, coach Mike Vrabel’s blunt assessment of the roster’s limitations has reignited discussions about the Patriots’ long-term challenges. After the team’s second preseason game, Vrabel admitted, “I do not think we have a very deep team.” This statement, initially perceived as a critique of the front office, was clarified as a straightforward acknowledgment of the roster’s shortcomings. The lack of depth stems from years of poor draft performances. The 2022 draft class, which included 10 selections, has only Marcus Jones remaining on the active roster. Of the seven players drafted in the first five rounds of the 2023 draft, only Christian Gonzalez is still with the team. The 2024 class, which included high-profile picks like Drake Maye, is expected to contribute minimally, with Maye likely being the sole addition to the roster. Vrabel emphasized the need for continued strong drafting, stating, “We have to continue to draft very well” to address the issue. This lack of depth has influenced the coaching staff’s approach to the preseason. Vrabel has been hesitant to play starters in exhibition games, prioritizing their health over competitive matchups. This strategy aligns with a broader league trend of valuing joint practices over exhibition games, as teams increasingly focus on preparing for the regular season.#new_england_patriots #mike_vrabel #drake_maye #eliot_wolf #foxborough_mass
Patriots' Eliot Wolf Defends Trade of Kayshon Boutte to Houston Eliot Wolf, the New England Patriots’ executive vice president of player personnel, addressed the recent trade of wide receiver Kayshon Boutte to the Houston Texans, emphasizing the depth of the team’s receiver room. Wolf stated that the Patriots feel confident in their current group of wideouts, which includes Romeo Doubs, A.J. Brown, Demario Douglas, Mack Hollins, Kyle Williams, and Efton Chism III. He highlighted the versatility of the group, noting that players can adapt to multiple roles, including slot and zone coverage, as well as special teams. The trade, which occurred after months of Boutte’s request to be moved, was finalized despite his strong performance during training camp. Boutte, entering the final year of his contract, had been a key contributor for the Patriots, but the team opted to trade him to an AFC contender. Wolf acknowledged the decision to part with a high-caliber player but argued that the additions of Doubs and Brown necessitated the move. The return for Boutte included backup safety Jaylen Reed and a 2028 seventh-round draft pick, a deal Wolf described as underwhelming given the market’s lack of interest in acquiring a player of Boutte’s caliber. Wolf also dismissed concerns that the trade could benefit Houston in a potential playoff matchup, stating there was no strategic concern about the move. He further explained that the Patriots had long targeted Reed in the 2025 NFL Draft, though the safety was selected before the team could draft him. Reed, who played sparingly during his rookie season with the Texans, saw increased action in the playoffs, logging over 80% of defensive snaps in both postseason games.#new_england_patriots #houston_texans #eliot_wolf #kayshon_boutte #romeo_doubs
Patriots Trade Kayshon Boutte to Texans in Midseason Deal The New England Patriots and Houston Texans completed a significant trade on Monday, with the Texans acquiring wide receiver Kayshon Boutte in exchange for safety Jaylen Reed and a 2028 seventh-round draft pick. The deal marks a pivotal moment for both teams as they navigate the NFL offseason and prepare for the 2025 season. Boutte, a 2023 sixth-round draft pick from LSU, will join the Texans after spending the past two seasons with the Patriots. The 5-foot-11, 203-pound receiver, who is entering the final year of his contract, started 10 games in 2024 and recorded 33 receptions for 551 yards and six touchdowns. Over the past two seasons, he tallied nine touchdown receptions, tying him with tight end Hunter Henry for the most by any Patriots player during that span. The trade comes amid uncertainty for the Texans, who lost wide receiver Jayden Higgins to a torn ACL during joint practices with the Las Vegas Raiders. Higgins, a 2025 second-round pick, had shown promise as a rookie, accumulating 525 receiving yards and six touchdowns. His injury leaves a void in Houston’s receiving corps, which previously relied on him as the No. 2 wideout alongside Nico Collins. Coach DeMeco Ryans described the loss as “significant,” highlighting the need for depth in the position. For the Patriots, the trade reflects their ongoing efforts to reshape their roster. After acquiring A.J. Brown in June and signing Romeo Doubs to a four-year, $68 million deal in March, Boutte’s role in the offense is expected to diminish. The Patriots already have a crowded receiving corps, including DeMario Douglas, Mack Hollins, Kyle Williams, and Efton Chism III, which could limit Boutte’s opportunities.#new_england_patriots #houston_texans #kayshon_boutte #jaylen_reed #jayden_higgins
New England Patriots Impress Philadelphia Eagles’ Defensive Coordinator with Joint Practices The New England Patriots’ recent joint practices with the Philadelphia Eagles have left a strong impression, according to Vic Fangio, the Eagles’ defensive coordinator. Fangio described the two sessions as “two of the most valuable days of training camp,” a statement that underscores the significance of the workouts for both teams. The practices, held in Foxboro before the teams faced off in their second preseason game, provided a unique opportunity for competitive evaluation without the pressure of a full game. Fangio, a veteran coach with nearly four decades of NFL experience, highlighted the value of facing a team with a dynamic offense and a deep roster. The Patriots, led by quarterback Drake Maye and wide receiver A.J. Brown, challenged the Eagles’ defense in ways that a regular preseason game might not. The Eagles, in turn, tested the Patriots’ offensive strategies, particularly during the second practice, when their defensive front and secondary disrupted New England’s rhythm. The back-and-forth nature of the sessions reflected the high level of competition, with both teams gaining critical insights into their opponents’ strengths and weaknesses. The first joint practice saw the Patriots’ offense at its peak, with Maye showcasing his ability to push the ball downfield. His throws to Brown, Romeo Doubs, and DeMario Douglas created explosive plays, earning praise from the Patriots’ official website, which called Maye “outstanding” during open-field drills. Maye’s precision, even under pressure, stood out, particularly on a difficult completion to Brown. However, the Eagles responded in the second session, with their defensive line generating more pressure and their secondary forcing turnovers.#philadelphia_eagles #aj_brown #new_england_patriots #drake_maye #vic_fangio
A.J. Brown Eyes Dominance with New England Patriots A.J. Brown, a seasoned wide receiver with a reputation as one of the NFL’s elite pass-catchers, is poised to make a significant impact with the New England Patriots in the 2026 season. The veteran receiver, who has consistently delivered standout performances throughout his career, is expected to thrive under the guidance of quarterback Drake Maye and the team’s offensive strategy. Patriots legend Julian Edelman has publicly endorsed Brown’s potential, drawing parallels to the legendary Randy Moss and highlighting the team’s recent additions as factors in Brown’s anticipated success. Edelman, speaking on the “Patriots Talk” Podcast, praised Brown’s ability to dominate opposing defenses, calling him a “1A” talent. “A.J. Brown, that’s a 1A. A real 1A. They probably haven’t had someone like that since Randy Moss,” Edelman said. He emphasized the Patriots’ strategic moves, including the acquisition of Romeo Doubs and the development of rookie tight end Eli Raridon, as key components of a revamped offensive arsenal. Edelman also credited offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels for his role in elevating players like Brown, noting McDaniels’ expertise in crafting schemes that maximize individual talents. Brown’s own track record underscores his readiness for the challenge. The 29-year-old receiver has surpassed 1,000 receiving yards in six of his seven full NFL seasons, with standout performances during his tenure with the Philadelphia Eagles. During his four years in Philadelphia, Brown helped the team reach two Super Bowl appearances, earning three All-Pro selections and accumulating 5,034 yards and 32 touchdowns across 62 games.#new_england_patriots #josh_mcdaniels #drake_maye #a_j_brown #julian_edelman
Stefon Diggs signs with Washington Commanders in free agency Stefon Diggs, the 11-year NFL veteran wide receiver, has agreed to terms with the Washington Commanders, marking his fourth team in four years. The deal was finalized on August 5, 2026, according to USA TODAY Sports’ Nate Davis. While the full details of the contract remain undisclosed, the move signals a significant shift in Diggs’ career trajectory. Diggs, who has been a free agent since March 11, 2026, joins the Commanders after a brief stint with the New England Patriots. The Patriots released him one week before the start of the 2026 NFL league year, ending his tenure with the team after a season in which he emerged as their leading pass-catcher. In 2025, Diggs recorded 104 targets, 85 receptions for 1,013 yards, and four touchdowns, showcasing his continued impact as a reliable target. This latest move follows a pattern of frequent team changes for Diggs. Two years prior, he was traded from the Buffalo Bills to the Houston Texans, and in 2025, he joined the Patriots via free agency. His decision to sign with the Commanders comes amid a period of uncertainty, as he navigated both professional and personal challenges. Legal issues also played a role in his career path. In December 2025, Diggs faced strangulation and assault charges after an alleged altercation with his personal chef. The case gained attention following the Patriots’ Super Bowl 60 loss, as Diggs was arraigned on February 13, 2026, and pleaded not guilty to felony strangulation or suffocation and misdemeanor assault and battery. However, a Massachusetts jury acquitted him on all charges on May 5, 2026, clearing his name and allowing him to focus on his football career. Despite the legal hurdles, Diggs’ on-field performance has remained consistent.#buffalo_bills #new_england_patriots #washington_commanders #stefon_diggs #nate_davis
Raymond Berry, a Hall of Fame wide receiver and one of the most successful head coaches in New England Patriots franchise history, has passed away at the age of 93. The Pro Football Hall of Fame announced his death on its website, marking the end of a storied career that spanned decades in both playing and coaching. Born in Corpus Christi, Texas, on February 27, 1933, Berry’s football journey began in high school under his father’s guidance. However, he did not start playing until his senior season. After attending Schreiner University, he completed his college career at Southern Methodist University (SMU), where he caught just 33 passes over three seasons. His lack of production led to a late draft selection, as he was chosen 232nd overall in the 1954 NFL Draft by the Baltimore Colts in the 20th round. Despite his unremarkable college stats, Berry quickly proved his worth in the NFL. Berry’s professional career was defined by his exceptional receiving skills. After retiring following an injury-shortened 1967 season, he had been voted All-Pro three times and earned six Pro Bowl appearances. Over his career, he appeared in 154 regular season games, catching 631 passes for 9,275 yards—then the highest total in league history—and 68 touchdowns. His postseason performance was equally impressive, as a two-time Colts champion, he recorded 20 receptions for 284 yards and a touchdown in four playoff games. Following his playing days, Berry transitioned to coaching, initially working with the Dallas Cowboys, Detroit Lions, Cleveland Browns, and Arkansas. In 1978, he joined the Patriots, where he began as a wide receivers coach under Chuck Fairbanks, Ron Erhardt, and Ron Meyer. When Meyer was dismissed in 1984, Berry took over as interim head coach.#new_england_patriots #san_francisco_49ers #baltimore_colts #pro_football_hall_of_fame #raymond_berry
Pro Football Hall of Famer Raymond Berry dies at 93 - CBS Baltimore Pro Football Hall of Famer Raymond Berry, a former Baltimore Colts player and New England Patriots head coach, has passed away at the age of 93, according to his family. Berry, who was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1973, died at his home in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, surrounded by his loved ones. He is survived by his wife of 65 years, three children, and nine grandchildren. Hall of Fame President Jim Porter praised Berry’s dedication and character, stating, “People said Raymond Berry was not blessed with the size or speed of other receivers in the National Football League, but no one worked harder to refine his skills and master his craft. There was no finer gentleman – a person who remained humble and grounded when others sought to thrust stardom upon him.” Berry’s playing career spanned 13 seasons with the Baltimore Colts from 1955 to 1967. During his time with the team, he earned six Pro Bowl selections and contributed to two NFL championship victories. He was a dominant receiver, leading the league in receptions in 1957, 1959, and 1960. By the end of his career, Berry retired as the NFL’s all-time receptions leader, a testament to his longevity and skill. After retiring as a player, Berry transitioned to coaching, joining the New England Patriots in 1978 as a receivers coach. When head coach Ron Meyer was fired in 1984, Berry took over as interim head coach. His first full season as head coach in 1985 marked a historic milestone for the franchise, as he led the Patriots to their first-ever Super Bowl appearance. Despite a thrilling playoff run, the team fell to the Chicago Bears in a 46-10 defeat.#new_england_patriots #murfreeboro_tennessee #baltimore_colts #pro_football_hall_of_fame #raymond_berry
Hall of Fame Receiver and Coach Raymond Berry Dies at 93 Raymond Berry, a legendary NFL receiver and coach, passed away at the age of 93 on May 25, 2026, in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, according to a statement released by the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Berry, whose career as a receiver with the Baltimore Colts was defined by his reliable hands and partnership with quarterback Johnny Unitas, died peacefully at home surrounded by family. His death marked the end of an era for football fans who revered his contributions to the sport. Berry’s playing career spanned 13 seasons with the Colts, during which he became a six-time Pro Bowl selection and a three-time league leader in receptions and receiving yards. He also led the NFL twice in touchdowns and was honored as a member of the NFL 100 all-time team. His No. 82 jersey was retired by the Colts, and he was inducted into the Baltimore Ravens’ Ring of Honor, reflecting his lasting impact on both franchises. The Colts’ owner, Carlie Irsay-Gordon, praised Berry as one of the greatest players in the team’s history and a foundational figure in the modern NFL. The Ravens similarly hailed him as a football icon, emphasizing his enduring influence on Baltimore sports and the league. Berry’s legacy extended beyond his playing days. After retiring as a player in 1967, he transitioned to coaching, serving as an assistant for 14 seasons across NFL and college levels before becoming the head coach of the New England Patriots in 1984. His first season with the Patriots culminated in a historic Super Bowl XX appearance, where the team lost to the Chicago Bears. Patriots owner Robert Kraft recalled Berry’s leadership, noting that the Super Bowl run was the franchise’s greatest achievement at the time.#new_england_patriots #raymond_berry #johnny_unitas #baltimore_colts #pro_football_hall_of_fame
Ex-Bills WR Stefon Diggs Predicted to Join NFC Super Bowl Favorite Rams Former Buffalo Bills wide receiver Stefon Diggs remains a free agent after being released by the New England Patriots following the Super Bowl, with insiders suggesting he could join the Los Angeles Rams ahead of the 2026 season. Despite facing a criminal trial set to begin on Monday, analysts believe the veteran receiver’s skills and experience could bolster the Rams’ chances of returning to the Super Bowl. The Rams, already a top contender in the NFC, are seeking a third wide receiver to complement their existing stars, Puka Nacua and Davante Adams, and Diggs is seen as a potential fit. CBS Sports writer Tyler Sullivan highlighted the Rams’ offseason focus on addressing their wide receiver needs, noting that the team prioritized drafting Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson with the No. 13 overall pick over signing a proven veteran. Sullivan argued that Diggs’ recent performance with the Patriots, where he surpassed 1,000 yards and helped the team reach Super Bowl LX, makes him an attractive option. While his production dipped in the final stretch of the 2025 season, Sullivan emphasized that Diggs’ ability to thrive in a complementary role could align with the Rams’ offensive strategy. The Rams’ path to the Super Bowl is bolstered by the return of quarterback Matthew Stafford, who led the team to the NFC title game in 2025 after a dramatic playoff loss to the Seattle Seahawks. With a strong roster and a history of playoff success, the Rams are positioned as one of the league’s most formidable teams in the 2026 season. Diggs’ potential addition would further solidify their receiving corps, though his availability hinges on the outcome of his legal proceedings.#los_angeles_rams #new_england_patriots #stefon_diggs #ty_simpson #matt_stafford
Mike Vrabel and Dianna Russini Navigate Controversy Amid NFL Draft Proceedings The controversy surrounding Dianna Russini and Mike Vrabel has led to significant repercussions for both individuals, with Russini resigning from her position at The Athletic and Vrabel facing scrutiny despite no formal investigation by the NFL. Russini, a former NFL analyst, resigned after The Athletic launched an internal probe into her conduct following allegations that she failed to provide evidence of a “group of friends” trip. In her resignation letter, she defended her professionalism but expressed refusal to endure a public inquiry she deemed damaging to her reputation. Meanwhile, Vrabel, the New England Patriots’ head coach, faced reputational challenges despite the NFL not pursuing formal action against him for alleged violations of personal conduct policies. Vrabel addressed media on April 21, acknowledging that he had engaged in “difficult conversations” with his family and players. While he remained involved in the Patriots’ operations during the 2026 NFL Draft, his absence during the third day of the event sparked speculation about his level of involvement. General manager Eliot Wolf clarified that Vrabel had opted to take time away from the team, stating that the coach and staff had decided the period needed to be “time away” rather than maintaining constant contact. Wolf emphasized that Vrabel had only sent brief messages to check in on the team’s well-being, dispelling reports of ongoing coordination during the draft. Despite Vrabel’s absence, the Patriots made several impactful draft selections on Day 3, adding six players to their roster.#new_england_patriots #mike_vrabel #the_athletic #dianna_russini #nfl_draft
Patriots Trading Marte Mapu to Texans in Late-Round Pick Swap The New England Patriots have finalized a trade that sends linebacker Marte Mapu to the Houston Texans in exchange for a 2027 sixth-round draft pick, according to reports from the Houston Chronicle. The deal marks the conclusion of Mapu’s three-year tenure with the Patriots, who initially planned to release him before the Texans presented a trade offer. The move comes as the Patriots seek to bolster depth at the linebacker position, which has seen several departures this offseason. Mapu, a 2023 third-round draft pick, was acquired by the Patriots as part of Bill Belichick’s final draft class. During his time with the team, he played both linebacker and safety roles, adapting to Mike Vrabel’s new defensive scheme. His career with the Patriots included 44 games, with 10 starts, and he recorded 89 tackles, three interceptions, 0.5 sacks, one quarterback hit, and 12 pass breakups. Mapu, 26, began his Patriots career as a safety before transitioning to linebacker in 2025, primarily playing on third-down passing situations. He was expected to earn $1.5 million in 2026. The trade leaves the Patriots with a mix of veteran and younger linebackers, including Robert Spillane, Christian Elliss, K.J. Britt, Chad Muma, Amari Gainer, and Otis Reese. The team also cut linebacker Jahlani Tavai this offseason and allowed Jack Gibbens to leave via free agency to the Arizona Cardinals. This decision reflects the Patriots’ ongoing efforts to refine their linebacker corps, which has faced challenges in maintaining consistency and depth. Mapu’s departure signals the end of his time with the Patriots, who had previously considered releasing him before the trade.#new_england_patriots #mike_vrabel #houston_texans #bill_belichick #martes_mapu
Patriots Agree to Trade LB Marte Mapu to Texans The New England Patriots have finalized a trade that sends linebacker Marte Mapu to the Houston Texans, marking a significant move in the team’s offseason restructuring. The deal, confirmed by multiple sources, involves a late-round draft pick swap between the two franchises. This transaction comes after the Patriots initially announced their intention to release Mapu earlier in the week, shifting their strategy from a potential cut to a trade that provides value for the player’s remaining contract. According to reports from Jonathan Alexander of the Houston Chronicle, the Texans have agreed to acquire Mapu in exchange for a late-round pick. The trade was finalized ahead of the NFL draft, which is set to begin in late April. While the specifics of the draft pick’s round were not disclosed, the swap reflects the Texans’ interest in adding depth to their linebacker corps, particularly in the wake of recent roster changes. Marte Mapu, a third-round selection in the 2023 NFL Draft, has spent the past three seasons with the Patriots. Over his tenure, the 24-year-old linebacker has appeared in 44 regular-season games, with 10 of those starts. His role has primarily been on special teams, where he has been a reliable contributor. In 2025, Mapu was on the field for 58 percent of the unit’s snaps, while his involvement on defense was limited to just 12 percent of the team’s defensive snaps. This specialization has shaped his career trajectory, as the Patriots have focused on his ability to handle kick returns and punt coverage rather than his defensive impact. Mapu’s performance has been consistent but unremarkable in terms of statistical production. His career highlights include a few key returns, but he has not been a standout in traditional defensive metrics.#new_england_patriots #special_teams #houston_texans #nfl_draft #martes_mapu
Patriots Trade Marte Mapu to Texans in Move for 2026 Draft Depth The New England Patriots have finalized a trade that ends Marte Mapu’s three-year tenure with the team, sending the linebacker and safety to the Houston Texans in exchange for a 2027 sixth-round draft pick. The deal, confirmed by league sources, marks the conclusion of a controversial experiment that began when the Patriots selected Mapu in the third round (76th overall) of the 2023 NFL Draft. Mapu, a 6-foot-3, 230-pound player from Sacramento State, was chosen for his versatility as a hybrid safety-linebacker, a role that did not align with the traditional linebacker preferences of former head coach Bill Belichick. Mapu’s selection was seen as an unconventional move, given his size—lighter than most linebackers Belichick typically favored but heavier than the safeties he often targeted. The Patriots hoped his athleticism and ability to make tackles would translate into success in a newer role, particularly as a nickel defender in schemes featuring five defensive backs. However, three years and three coaching regimes later, the team has decided to move on from Mapu, citing a lack of depth at the linebacker position and the player’s salary not aligning with his projected role in 2026. The trade came after the Patriots had already informed Mapu of their intention to release him, according to league sources. Mapu, entering the final year of his contract, was set to earn a base salary of $1.508 million. While another team could potentially offer a conditional late-round draft pick for his services, the Patriots’ decision to trade him rather than cut him loose reflects their assessment of his value. The move also underscores the team’s focus on building depth for the 2026 NFL Draft, which will take place from April 23 to 25.#new_england_patriots #houston_texans #jerod_mayo #bill_belichick #marte_mapu
Bengals Sign Safety Kyle Dugger to One-Year Contract The Cincinnati Bengals have finalized a one-year agreement with safety Kyle Dugger, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The move marks the team’s effort to bolster its secondary ahead of the 2025 season. Dugger, 30, will join the Bengals after spending the second half of the 2024 season with the Pittsburgh Steelers. During his time with Pittsburgh, he started nine games and contributed significantly to the defense, recording 42 total tackles, five passes defensed, and two interceptions. Dugger’s journey to the Bengals began with his tenure in New England. A second-round pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, he spent his first five-plus seasons with the New England Patriots, where he became a key rotational player. Over his career, Dugger has appeared in 90 games, with 78 starts, and has accumulated 11 interceptions and 29 passes defensed. His ability to read the game and make plays in critical moments has made him a reliable option for teams seeking defensive depth. The Bengals’ decision to sign Dugger reflects their strategy to address weaknesses in their secondary. While the team has a strong foundation with players like Jessie Bates III and Tre Flowers, adding Dugger provides flexibility and competition. His experience in both the Patriots’ and Steelers’ systems could help him adapt quickly to Cincinnati’s defensive schemes. Dugger’s trade to the Steelers in the offseason was a notable move, as he had been with the Patriots for nearly six years. The trade allowed him to gain more playing time and showcase his skills in a different system. His performance with Pittsburgh, particularly his ability to step into a starting role, has positioned him as a valuable free agent for teams looking to strengthen their defense.#new_england_patriots #adam_schefter #pittsburgh_steers #cincinnati_bengals #kyle_dugger
Ex-Steelers Safety Kyle Dugger Signs With Bengals, Agent Confirms Safety Kyle Dugger has agreed to a one-year contract with the Cincinnati Bengals, according to his agent, Drew Rosenhaus, who shared the news with ESPN’s Adam Schefter on Thursday. The move places Dugger in the AFC North for the 2026 season, marking his return to the league after a brief stint with the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Bengals, seeking depth at the safety position following the departure of Geno Stone to the Buffalo Bills, are expected to benefit from Dugger’s experience and versatility. Dugger’s journey to the Bengals began with a trade from the Pittsburgh Steelers, who acquired him from the New England Patriots during the 2025 trade deadline. The Steelers gave up a 2026 sixth-round draft pick to secure Dugger, along with a 2026 seventh-round pick, in exchange for the former second-rounder. The trade was driven by the Steelers’ need for defensive stability, as starting strong safety DeShon Elliott was placed on season-ending injured reserve. Dugger’s arrival provided immediate impact, as he played nearly 100% of the defensive snaps in his debut game with the Steelers, helping the team defeat the Indianapolis Colts. Dugger’s performance continued to impress throughout the 2025 season. In his third start, he recorded a pick-six, showcasing his ability to make game-changing plays. However, his workload was adjusted in the final weeks of the regular season. During the Week 17 matchup against the Cleveland Browns, Dugger played approximately half of the defensive snaps, splitting time with veteran Chuck Clark. This adjustment allowed the Steelers to manage their depth while preparing for the playoffs. Despite the reduced snaps in the final games, Dugger’s contributions were significant.#new_england_patriots #pittsburgh_steelers #drew_rosenhaus #cincinnati_bengals #kyle_dugger
The Manning family quarterback tree continues to expand as Peyton Manning’s son, Marshall Manning, steps into the spotlight with his own football ambitions. The 14-year-old, who will be a high school freshman at Baylor School in Chattanooga, Tenn., has already made headlines for his athletic prowess, including a standout performance during a 7-on-7 football event in Murfreesboro, Tenn. Marshall’s talent was further highlighted during the 2025 NFL Pro Bowl Games, where he participated as a middle schooler. While attending the event in Orlando, Fla., he threw passes to NFL receivers, showcasing his potential at an early age. His presence at the Pro Bowl, alongside his father Peyton Manning, who was seen watching the game in 2025, underscores the family’s deep ties to American football. Baylor School, where Marshall will begin his high school career, has a storied football history. The team claimed a state title in 2025, marking their second championship in the past four years and their third overall. The school’s legacy is further enriched by its alumni, including John Hannah, a Hall of Fame offensive guard for the New England Patriots from 1973 to 1985. Hannah’s career was celebrated for his dominance, as he earned spots on the NFL’s All-Decade Team in both the 1970s and 1980s and was an All-Pro in 10 of his 13 seasons. Marshall’s path mirrors that of his father, who rose to become one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history. While the younger Manning is still in the early stages of his journey, his performances and family connections have positioned him as a promising figure in the world of football. As he prepares for high school, the Manning name continues to carry weight in the sport’s future.#new_england_patriots #peyton_manning #marshall_manning #baylor_school #john_hannah
Patriots Update Quarterback Depth Chart for 2026 The New England Patriots are set to replace their current backup quarterback, Joshua Dobbs, with Tommy DeVito as the new second-stringer behind Drake Maye. According to NFL Network reporter Ian Rapoport, the team plans to release Dobbs, a move that would save the Patriots approximately $3.7 million in salary and create only $1.05 million in dead cap obligations. Dobbs, who spent the 2025 season as Maye’s backup, saw limited playing time, appearing in just four games. His most significant action came in Week 7 against the Tennessee Titans, where he entered the game briefly after Maye was pulled for a concussion evaluation. Dobbs completed a single pass attempt, converting a third down to DeMario Douglas, before Maye returned to finish the drive, which ended with a Rhamondre Stevenson touchdown. The Patriots’ decision to part ways with Dobbs appears to be a strategic move to prioritize DeVito, a 2025 third-stringer they re-signed to a two-year deal. DeVito, who has eight NFL starts and backup experience, will now serve as Maye’s primary backup. The team has already engaged in trade discussions involving Dobbs, though the release seems likely to finalize after the free agency period. DeVito’s contract includes up to $2.3 million in salary and bonuses for 2026, with $2 million guaranteed. With Dobbs’ departure, the Patriots will need to identify a new third-string quarterback to handle practice drills and serve as an emergency backup. The team may target a veteran willing to take on a limited role, as the current roster lacks depth at the position. DeVito, though 27 years old, has only two seasons of NFL game experience, making him a relative newcomer.#ian_rapoport #new_england_patriots #drake_maye #tommy_devito #joshua_dobbs
NFL news roundup: Patriots release backup QB Josh Dobbs after no trade materializes The New England Patriots announced on March 23, 2026, that they had released quarterback Josh Dobbs following failed efforts to secure a trade. Dobbs, 31, had served as the team’s backup during the 2025 season, making four appearances and completing seven of 10 passes for 65 yards. The decision to cut Dobbs came after the Patriots could not find a team willing to match his contract terms, according to NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport. Dobbs’ release marks the end of his tenure with the Patriots, where he joined the team in 2023. With the departure of Dobbs, the Patriots have shifted their quarterback depth, with Tommy DeVito now set to serve as the backup to first-year starter Drake Maye in 2026. The move reflects the team’s focus on streamlining its roster ahead of the 2026 season. The Patriots also made several other signings and transactions in the offseason. Offensive lineman James Hudson signed a one-year deal with the team, while defensive tackle Sam Roberts joined on a one-year contract. Additionally, the team announced the signing of tight end Stone Smartt and the departure of running back Travis Homer, who joined the Pittsburgh Steelers. Other notable moves included the re-signing of tight end Travis Kelce to a three-year, $54.735 million deal with the Kansas City Chiefs, which includes potential incentives pushing the total value to $57.735 million. Kelce’s 2026 salary is expected to be $12 million, with an additional $3 million in incentives. The Patriots’ roster adjustments highlight ongoing efforts to balance depth and salary cap flexibility.#ian_rapoport #new_england_patriots #drake_maye #tommy_devito #josh_dobbs
Patriots Release Joshua Dobbs, Promote Tommy DeVito to QB2 The New England Patriots announced on Monday that they have released quarterback Joshua Dobbs, moving Tommy DeVito into the No. 2 quarterback role. Dobbs, 31, had served as the team’s backup behind Drake Maye during the 2025 season. His release comes after the Patriots signed DeVito to a two-year contract worth up to $7.4 million, including incentives, following their decision not to tender him as a restricted free agent. Dobbs’ contract included a base salary of $3.2 million for 2026 and a $4.75 million salary cap charge. The deal also featured per-game roster bonuses of $25,000, with a potential total of $425,000, as well as a $75,000 workout bonus. The Patriots’ move to cut Dobbs and elevate DeVito reflects their strategy to prioritize cost-effective depth while building a more competitive roster. DeVito, now set to assume the No. 2 role, signed a deal with a base value of $4.4 million. The team plans to add a third quarterback later in the offseason, further solidifying their options at the position. This adjustment underscores the Patriots’ focus on balancing financial responsibility with long-term developmental goals. Dobbs’ most notable performance with the Patriots occurred during a 31-13 victory over the Tennessee Titans on October 19. In that game, Maye left the field early in the third quarter for a concussion evaluation, and Dobbs took over. On third-and-5, he completed a 12-yard pass to DeMario Douglas, setting up a touchdown drive that put the Patriots ahead 24-13. The team went on to secure the win, highlighting Dobbs’ ability to step in under pressure. Despite his strong showing in that game, Dobbs saw limited action in 2025, playing in just four games.#new_england_patriots #tennessee_titans #drake_maye #joshua_dobbs #tommy_devito
