Let's reset the roster via an updated depth chart. And then we'll give you our thoughts on what we like, don't like and need to see more.
UPDATED DEPTH CHART
OFFENSIVE THOUGHTS
Quarterback
Why is everyone so quick to declare Malik Cunningham as a QB, let alone the third QB? We're talking about a player who practiced a total of two days at QB during the entire offseason. I mean, that could have changed and I'm waiting to hear word from inside about the plans for Cunningham, but I would just declare him a QB yet. In any event, he's mostly going to be a scout team player, QB this week against the Eagles.
Expect Zappe to be elevated from the practice squad before the Eagles game to be the backup.
I really hope the Patriots aren't waiting until after Week 1 to sign a veteran QB. If you wait, it's the only time a veteran contract is not guaranteed.
Running back
Love Zeke behind Stevenson - great 1-2 punch. And Zeke is likely going to have to be the third-down back against the pressure-heavy Eagles.
But outside the top two, I hate the depth here. Harris and Lil'Jordan Montgomery? That's the best you can do? Running backs are all over the place. Find better ones.
Tight end
Depth is the same here. It's awful. All three on practice squad are backup level at best. With two TEs in contract years, it's a dereliction of duty not to have one tight end with upside and the potential to start a year from now. ... Patriots are actively trying to find better here.
Receiver
I like the depth here, I just don't like the high-end talent. Not great that Parker has missed practice the past two days. Hearing that Smith-Schuster will have to be managed for at least a couple of weeks. If that's the case, the Patriots should make Bourne #2 and spot Smith-Schuster as #3.
Left tackle
If Anderson can get up to speed physically soon — he's missed a ton with this illness and probably lost muscle and conditioning — then I like this. Anderson is a 3 at best. Wheatley is a perfect developmental guy (that they should have signed a year ago when he worked out - someone was asleep at the switch in personnel).
Guards
Ideally, Mafi is backing up and imitating Onwenu because physically they are very similar - and Onwenu continues to be in a contract year. But Mafi only worked at left guard to this point. ... Amazing Reiff hasn't gone on IR yet. Jake Andrews would be the back up at RG in that case.
Right tackle
No idea how quickly Lowe learns, but just based on the film, Lowe could very well start in Week 1. Trading for two guys at OT shows that Sow is not yet ready. He was not drafted to play RT this season. He can with work.
DEFENSE
Interior line
Patriots are left with Guy and Ekuale behind Godchaux. That is nowhere near good enough. They are razor-thin here. They're looking for more. ... I'm worried about Barmore having a very quiet preseason. Patriots need him to dominate.
Edge
The only thing not to like here is that two players are in contract years.
Linebacker
Extremely think here. An injury to Bentley and the Patriots are screwed. Wilson did not earn a spot on this team. Munson and Giles-Harris are two good guys to have on the practice squad.
Cornerback
Brutally thin here. The Patriots are one injury to Gonzalez, Jon Jones or Jack Jones/Marcus Jones from having Shaun Wade playing a lot. He should not be on this roster. Ameer Speed is strictly a FUTURE special teams spot. You have to be kidding
If the Eagles game was today, I think Myles Bryant would be the slot. He could be the free safety as well. In other words, he's headed for a large role. Sorry.
Jack Jones' usage in the final game means he's either headed for suspension, or he's the 4th corner behind Bryant or Marcus Jones.
Safety
I still think the starting free safety — or at least the guy there on third and long — is still very much up for grabs, and that scares me.
I think it's Phillips today with Mills and Bryant in consideration.
Obviously strong safety/sub linebacker is not an issue. I think Marte will match up vs. tight ends and running backs to start.
