The Patriots released RB Joey Iosefa yesterday and have now since re-signed him to the practice squad. The Patriots called him up for immediate duty when they placed LeGarrette Blount on Injured Reserve following the Texans game. Iosefa had a solid debut with a 14-carry, 51-yard performance against the Tennessee Titans, but was used sparingly against the Jets and their nasty front. With Steven Jackson in the fold and looking solid in his limited reps, the Patriots don't really need a short-yardage specialist for the time being. Iosefa takes the practice squad spot left open when the Patriots promoted WR Chris Harper for the game.
That probably means the Patriots will continue to have Iosefa develop in the practice squad and get an offer to return to camp the following summer to fight for a job. Right now he looks the part to be a short-yardage back who can power through tacklers in the open field or drive a pile forwards, although he missed on his 3rd and 1 carry against the Jets which also injured LT Sebastian Vollmer. The Patriots now have an open spot on the 53-man roster and the practice squad, it will be interesting to see what they use it for.
The Patriots Practice Squad is now:
- RB Joey Iosefa
- LB Kevin Snyder
- RB Montee Ball
- WR DeAndre Carter
- CB Rashaan Melvin
- DB Brock Vereen
- OL Keavon Milton
- OL Chris Barker
- OL Torrian Wilson