With the Patriots making some back-end transactions over the last week, there are two open spots on the 90-man roster. The following is a "roster re-set" of the personnel at each position, with a quick-hit thought as to the likelihood of an addition:
Quarterback (3)
QUICK-HIT THOUGHT: One of just five teams in the NFL to carry just three quarterbacks on the roster, but at this point, the only reason for an addition would be to lighten load on Brady and Mallett. It doesn’t seem like that is part of the team’s thinking.
Running back (5)
QUICK-HIT THOUGHT: An area with potential for an addition after the release of rookie free agent Akeem Shavers. Bolden hasn’t participated in the on-field portion of OTAs due to injury.
Wide receiver (11)
QUICK-HIT THOUGHT: Another position that could be primed for an addition, as Edelman, Boyce and Harrison have not participated in the on-field portion of OTAs due to injury. With all the change at the position, perhaps there is a thought of keeping familiar targets like Deion Branch and Donte’ Stallworth on speed dial.
Tight end (7)
QUICK-HIT THOUGHT: Sudfeld, a rookie free agent, has taken advantage of quality practice reps because of injuries to the top two on the depth chart. Hard to imagine many teams, if any, matching the experience and quality of this depth chart which is why an addition seems unlikely.
Fullback (2)
QUICK-HIT THOUGHT: We’ve seen some two-back sets in practice, but it remains to be seen if a pure fullback will break through for a spot on the 53-man roster. They’re essentially competing against running backs, linebackers and tight ends, with special teams considerations in mind.
Offensive tackle (8)
Marcus Cannon (also RG)
QUICK-HIT THOUGHT: Pretty well stocked, especially when Vollmer is ultimately cleared for on-field participation.
Center/guard (7)
QUICK-HIT THOUGHT: It looks a little light on experience here, especially with Connolly and Nick McDonald not on the field at practice. Potential for an addition after the release of veteran Tyronne Green. Also notable that third-year pro Marcus Cannon, primarily a tackle in his first two seasons, has been in the mix at right guard.
Defensive tackle (7)
QUICK-HIT THOUGHT: Light on experience after Wilfork and Kelly, which makes it a stronger possibility for a roster addition.
Defensive end (7)
QUICK-HIT THOUGHT: Good competition to monitor behind starters Ninkovich and Jones as it appears Bequette has had a solid offseason and could be on the rise. Top draft pick Jamie Collins, working more at linebacker at this time, could also factor in here. While an addition is always possible, it doesn’t seem like a necessity from this viewpoint.
Linebacker (10)
Dont’a Hightower
Jamie Collins
QUICK-HIT THOUGHT: Looks like a deep group.
Cornerback (8)
QUICK-HIT THOUGHT: If everyone is healthy, this wouldn’t appear to be a spot where an addition is needed.
Safety (7)
QUICK-HIT THOUGHT: A little thin in practice with McCourty, Ebner and Harmon not participating in team drills, which has had Marquice Cole stepping in. But numbers are solid and an addition wouldn’t seem to be a top priority for an addition.
Punter (2)
QUICK-HIT THOUGHT: No need for a third punter.
Kicker (2)
QUICK-HIT THOUGHT: No need for a third kicker.
Long snapper (2)
QUICK-HIT THOUGHT: No need for a third long snapper.
Injured reserve (1)
WR T.J. Moe