Patriots Re-Sign Ben Brown, Add Erick Hunter After Post-Cutdown Roster Shakeup

Key points

• The Patriots re-signed center Ben Brown and rookie linebacker Erick Hunter to the 53-man roster on September 1.
• Brown, 28, had been released on August 31 but is expected to return, according to ESPN's Mike Reiss.
• The team claimed tight end Cameron Latu and linebacker Darius Muasau off waivers to fill spots created by releases.
• Punter Bryce Baringer and linebacker Khalil Jacobs were placed on injured reserve, with both eligible to return no earlier than Week 5.
• The Patriots signed linebackers K.J. Britt and Jose Ramirez, defensive tackle Jalen Hunt, and offensive lineman Jake Kubas to the practice squad.
• The team currently has two open 53-man roster spots and five open practice squad spots.

Background

The New England Patriots have been actively reshaping their roster since the initial 53-man cutoff on August 30, 2026. This follows a series of trades and releases, including the acquisition of running back Corey Kiner from Arizona and the release of running back Hassan Haskins. The team also traded wide receiver Kayshon Boutte to the Houston Texans for safety Jaylen Reed and a draft pick. These moves are part of a broader post-cutdown period where teams across the NFL are finalizing their rosters and practice squads, as seen with the Dallas Cowboys, Miami Dolphins, and Pittsburgh Steelers making similar adjustments.

How outlets are covering it

The primary source, the official New England Patriots announcement, focuses on the final roster additions, highlighting the re-signing of Ben Brown and the addition of Erick Hunter, along with practice squad signings. The secondary source, 98.5 The Sports Hub, provides a more analytical perspective, noting that Brown's release on August 31 was surprising given his role as a top backup offensive lineman, but that his re-signing was expected. The Sports Hub also emphasizes the team's open roster spots and the potential for further additions, particularly in the punter position, where veteran Mitch Wishnowsky is projected to start. The two sources agree on the core moves but differ in their emphasis, with the official source focusing on the final roster and the secondary source analyzing the implications of the moves and the team's remaining flexibility.

Why it matters

These roster moves are critical for the New England Patriots as they prepare for the 2026 NFL season. The re-signing of Ben Brown and the addition of Erick Hunter provide depth at key positions, while the practice squad signings offer potential upgrades. The open roster spots and the placement of players on injured reserve indicate that the team is still in a state of flux, with potential for further changes. These decisions will impact the team's performance and flexibility throughout the season, particularly in the event of injuries or other roster needs.

What to watch

The New England Patriots are expected to make further roster additions in the coming days, particularly to fill their two open 53-man roster spots and five open practice squad spots. The team may also look to sign a punter, as Bryce Baringer is on injured reserve and Mitch Wishnowsky is on the practice squad. The Patriots will also need to monitor the health of players on injured reserve, including Marcus Bryant, Harold Landry, and Brenden Schooler, as well as the newly placed Bryce Baringer and Khalil Jacobs. The team's next game is scheduled for the start of the regular season, and these roster decisions will be crucial for their success.