The New England Patriots are reshaping their roster after the 2026 NFL Draft, aiming for a Super Bowl return. Predictions for the 53-man roster highlight key changes and new draft picks.
Key points
New England Patriots focusing on 53-man roster after NFL Draft
Team aims for Super Bowl return
2026 draft class expected to impact roster changes
Predictions include key new players and undrafted free agents
New England PatriotsNFL Draft 2026
Now that the NFL Draft is over, it's all about focusing on figuring out the 53-man roster for the New England Patriots.
The New England Patriots are aiming to return to the Super Bowl and wash out the bad taste of last yearās bitter defeat. After a robust 2026 NFL Draft class, there stands to be some changes to the roster.
Who's in? Who's out? Here is how I'd project the 53-man roster moving forward.
Note: Players with a single asterisk (*) are 2026 draft picks and players with double asterisks (**) are 2026 undrafted free agents.
New England Patriots Way-Too-Early 53-man roster prediction
The skinny:Ā No surprises here with the top two. Drake Maye should continue to play at an MVP level. Iām not sure if Morton will be rostered every week, and seems likely to be snuck through as a PS member to be the emergency quarterback on gamedays.
The skinny:Ā The top two backs are locked in with Stevenson and Henderson. The selection of Jam Miller is a perfect complement, and he should lock up the RB3 job early on in the room. Reggie Gilliamās ability to handle running back and tight end duties allows them to get flexible with the roster numbers.
The skinny:Ā Iām not entirely convinced this is how this room will look when the preseason begins (cough cough). However, with no additions in the draft, Iām pretty confident in everyone from last year keeping their jobs heading into this year. UDFA Kyle Dixon got a massive $252k deal in guarantees to sign, giving him pretty good odds of being a promising lock.
The skinny:Ā Head coach Mike Vrabel said the team wanted to get more multiple, and I believe. Henry is the obvious TE1, but I think Eli Raridon can be a contributor early on. Hill was brought in to improve their run blocking, and I think Arkin can make the roster for the same reasons. With Gilliam rotating into this room as well, itās bully ball time in New England.
The skinny:Ā The starting lineup should remain the same as it was heading into the draft, but the depth is dramatically improved. Caleb Lomu and Dametrious Crownover likely lock up the depth tackle spots, pushing Hudson and Bryant out. Ben Brown and Caedan Wallace are valuable swing linemen as well.
The skinny:Ā Surprisingly, the New England Patriots didnāt draft a single defensive tackle after being rumored to for months. This room should still be a strength of the team. However, they are banking on a lot of young talent in Farmer, Durden, and Taylor to take that next step.
The skinny: Mike Vrabel has frequently rostered four edge rushers, but this room is too deep to do so this year in my opinion. The starting three is set with Landry, Jones, and Jacas. However, Elijah Ponder was a tremendous rookie on special teams. I think Hutchinsā draft capital might give him the edge over a disappointing rookie season from Bradyn Swinson.
The skinny:Ā Spillane and Elliss will be their starting linebackers, to no surprise. However, donāt be shocked if Obiazor carves out a strong role, especially on early downs. Britt is the special teams ace of the room, and that will be his ticket onto the roster over the field.
The skinny:Ā New England had their starting trio set heading into the draft, while Vildor adds inside-outside ability. The addition of Prunty likely rounds out the room, keeping out the field.
The skinny:Ā There was some speculation the Patriots could draft a safety this year. However, the team didnāt, locking up the same rotation as they had pre-draft. Byard and Woodson should be one of the best safety duos in the AFC. Meanwhile, Schooler and Pettus are valuable special teams assets.
The skinny:Ā There werenāt any additions to compete at kicker or punter, locking in Borregales and Baringer. The battle between Ashby and Lalos could go into camp, but I have to imagine the draft capital and experience of Ashby would win out in the end.
Nov 15, 2025; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish tight end Eli Raridon (9) runs after a catch against the Pittsburgh Panthers during the fourth quarter at Acrisure Stadium.
Nov 15, 2025; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish tight end Eli Raridon (9) runs after a catch against the Pittsburgh Panthers during the fourth quarter at Acrisure Stadium.
