Patriots Roster Moves

Webb's Injury Ends His Second Straight Season

Jeremiah Webb will not see the field for the second year in a row. The wide receiver was placed on injured reserve before the season began, ending any chance he had to compete for a roster spot. New England carried 12 wide receivers heading into camp, making his roster spot far from guaranteed even without the injury, according to Fresno Bee.

Injured reserve — often called IR — is a roster designation that sidelines a player for the season. By placing Webb there now, the Patriots create space to bring in other players. Webb will still receive his contract but cannot play in any games this year.

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Jacas Contract Saga Finally Comes to a Close

Gabe Jacas officially signed his rookie contract after more than a month of uncertainty. The edge rusher never showed up to rookie minicamp or the team's mandatory minicamps, raising questions about his future in New England, per Modesto Bee. Teams are required to hold mandatory minicamps, so missing them is a significant step.

With his contract now signed, Jacas joins the roster but will start the season on the active/non-football injury list. That designation means he cannot play right away, but the Patriots can activate him at any point during the season, according to Island Packet.

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What the Active/Non-Football Injury List Means for Jacas

The active/non-football injury list — sometimes called the NFI list — is used for players hurt outside of team activities. Unlike injured reserve, it does not end a player's season. The Patriots can activate Jacas whenever he is healthy and ready, giving them flexibility, per San Luis Obispo Tribune.

This gives New England a potential pass-rush weapon to add mid-season. Jacas was a draft pick with upside as an edge rusher. His late arrival to camp means he will need time to learn the defense before he can contribute, according to Ledger-Enquirer.

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Patriots Roster Takes Shape Ahead of Preseason

These two moves come just after the team's second training camp practice. The Patriots are still building their roster ahead of the preseason. With Webb out, New England has one fewer receiver competing for a spot. The team now has room to evaluate other players at that position, per Kentucky. NFL teams must cut their rosters to 53 players before the regular season begins.

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