Patriots Release OL Blaine Clausell from the Practice Squad, Expected to Re-Sign OL Chris Barker

Yesterday, offensive linemen Sebastian Vollmer (concussion), Marcus Cannon (toe) and Tre' Jackson (knee) all returned to practice for the first time since suffering their respective injuries. It seems as if the Patriots offensive line is on its way to return to full strength. Consequently, the need for depth guys is no longer that big.

That's why it is no surprise that the Patriots have released offensive lineman Blaine Clausell from their practice squad, according to his agent Brett Tessler:

The New England Patriots just released T/G Blaine Clausell from their practice squad. Line has gotten healthy and they're thin elsewhere.

The 23-year old was originally signed to the Patriots' practice squad on September 8, after having spent time with the Baltimore Ravens during the offseason. Given the injuries to New England's offensive line, he was a candidate to be promoted to the 53-man roster but such a move never happened.

Instead, the Patriots opted to call up fellow offensive lineman Chris Barker. Barker was active as a backup against the New York Giants but due to Vollmer, Cannon and Jackson returning to health, was no longer needed and released when the team promoted wide receiver Chris Harper. Yesterday, Barker cleared waivers and is expected to fill the spot that has been opened up via Clausell's release.