
Patriots bolster TE depth with Shane Zylstra on practice squad as Butler and Kibble move off IR
The New England Patriots added tight end Shane Zylstra to the practice squad and released rookie safety Eric Butler and rookie wide receiver Jimmy Kibble from injured reserve. Zylstra, 29, has NFL experience with the Vikings and Lions (35 games, 18 receptions, 136 yards, 4 TDs) and was with the Bills earlier in 2026 before being released. The moves expand depth at tight end while clearing two players from IR.





