The Patriots are beginning to trim their roster and made a few moves Sunday afternoon.
New England released tight end Johnny Lumpkin and safety Brad Hawkins, sources confirmed to MassLive’s Mark Daniels. A source also confirmed to MassLive’s Chris Mason that the Patriots released defensive lineman Justus Tavai.
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These three players, along with several others, were not spotted at practice on Sunday.
Hawkins signed a futures contract with the Patriots in January after being on its practice squad in 2022. The Michigan product appeared in New England’s first preseason game and saw regular reps on special teams. It was always going to be an uphill battle for Hawkins to crack the 53-man roster with the Patriots having strong safety depth that includes With Kyle Dugger, Jabrill Peppers and Adrian Phillips. Jalen Mills and Joshua Bledsoe are also in that mix.
Lumpkin signed as a rookie free agent in May, but his true upside as a tight end was limited. Most of his value came as a blocker and, much like Hawkins, had an uphill battle to try and earn a spot on the roster as New England’s third tight end alongside Hunter Henry and Mike Gesicki. While Lumpkin’s blocking gave him an edge over Matt Sokol, Scotty Washington and Anthony Firkser, it appears it wasn’t enough.
Tavai originally signed with New England as an undrafted free agent in May. He was cut rather quickly but re-signed with the team in June. He was on the physically unable to perform list before training camp, but was removed after passing his physical.
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NFL rosters must be at 53 by Tuesday at 4 p.m. ET. The Patriots open their season on Sept. 10 against the Philadelphia Eagles at Gillette Stadium.
Follow along with all the news and rumors leading up to cutdown day with our tracker.
