Patriots Elevate Larison, Wishnowsky for Seahawks Opener Amid Henderson Injury

Key points

• Lan Larison, a 24-year-old undrafted free agent from UC Davis, joins the active roster after spending his rookie season on injured reserve. He was waived on August 30 and signed to the practice squad on September 1.
• Mitch Wishnowsky, a 34-year-old veteran punter, was signed to the practice squad on August 31 after being released by the Buffalo Bills. He has played in 105 regular-season games and averages 45.6 yards per punt.
• The elevations are temporary; both players will return to the practice squad after the game against the Seahawks, as they have two standard call-ups remaining before requiring a permanent roster spot.
• Running back TreVeyon Henderson was ruled out for the season opener due to an ankle injury, necessitating the elevation of Larison to join Rhamondre Stevenson and Corey Kiner in the backfield.
• Punter Bryce Baringer is currently on injured reserve, requiring the Patriots to elevate Wishnowsky to handle punting duties for the game.

Background

These roster moves follow a series of practice squad adjustments in early September, including the addition of tight end Shane Zylstra and safety Elliott Davison. The Patriots had previously finalized their 53-man roster and practice squad, with several players moving between the active roster and injured reserve. The current moves are part of the team's ongoing effort to manage depth and address injuries ahead of the regular season.

How outlets are covering it

The New England Patriots' official announcement confirms the elevations and provides detailed backgrounds for both players. Pats Pulpit highlights the temporary nature of the moves and notes that both players have two standard call-ups remaining. NBC Sports emphasizes the immediate need for these players due to injuries to Henderson and Baringer. The Boston Herald provides additional context on Larison's college career and the Patriots' backfield depth, noting that Stevenson is expected to take on the bulk of running back duties. All sources agree on the facts of the elevations and the reasons behind them, with no significant disagreements or differing emphases.

Why it matters

These moves are significant for the Patriots' immediate game plan against the Seattle Seahawks, as they address critical needs at running back and punter due to injuries. The temporary nature of the elevations suggests that the Patriots are managing their roster carefully, aiming to keep options open while addressing short-term needs. The performance of Larison and Wishnowsky in the game could influence future roster decisions and the team's approach to managing depth and injuries throughout the season.

What to watch

The Patriots will play the Seattle Seahawks in their Week 1 matchup, with Larison and Wishnowsky expected to contribute. After the game, both players will revert to the practice squad. The team will continue to monitor the health of TreVeyon Henderson and Bryce Baringer, with potential future elevations or roster adjustments depending on their recovery progress. The Patriots will also evaluate the performance of Larison and Wishnowsky to determine if they warrant permanent roster spots in the future.