(Continuing a month-long series analyzing players who are on the roster bubble and where they may potentially fit in 2013.)
NAME: Markus Zusevics
POSITION: Offensive tackle
AGE: 24
2012 STATS: Did not appear in a game.
INJURY STATUS: No known injuries
CHANCE OF MAKING 53-MAN ROSTER: 35%
WHY HE SHOULD MAKE IT: The injury that landed Zusevics on the non-football injury list to begin last season may have benefited him, as he was able to stay with the Patriots when he otherwise would have had a tough road to the 53-man roster as an undrafted free agent. He remains an intriguing prospect and it would hardly be a shock if he found his way back onto the roster in a reserve role.
WHY HE SHOULD NOT MAKE IT: The wild card for Zusevics' chances of making it is Marcus Cannon. It appears that Cannon, in his third training camp with the team, may see more time at guard, a position thinned by the loss of Donald Thomas through free agency. But if Cannon, who has game experience at tackle, secures a role, he and veteran newcomer Will Svitek may provide the Patriots enough options at tackle for Zusevics to become expendable.
CLOSEST COMPETITION: T/G Marcus Cannon, OT Will Svitek, OT Kevin Haslam