Prior to last week's preseason opener against the Green Bay Packers, the New England Patriots have made a few minor transactions to make sure the roster is as deep and healthy as possible. It seems as if the team takes the same approach this week. According to CSN Bay Area reporter Matt Maiocco, the team has traded for San Francisco 49ers tight end Asante Cleveland:
Source: 49ers trade TE Asante Cleveland to Patriots. http://t.co/nEpd6RB5RQ
— Matt Maiocco (@MaioccoCSN) August 18, 2015
The 23-year old former Miami Hurricane was signed by the 49ers as an undrafted free agent following the 2014 NFL Draft. The 6'5", 250 lbs. tight end spent six games during his rookie year on the team's active roster; the other ten on the practice squad. Cleveland, who did not catch a pass in 2014, caught three balls for 10 yards in San Francisco's preseason opener last Saturday.
According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the team traded second-year offensive lineman Jordan Devey to the 49ers in order to get Cleveland:
Patriots traded OL Jordan Devey to San Francisco for TE Asante Cleveland, sources told ESPN.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) August 18, 2015
The move brings back memories of last week's trade with the Chicago Bears. The Patriots traded rookie linebacker Matt Wells for offensive lineman Ryan Groy. Just like Wells, Devey was a longshot to make the team, even though the 27-year old started four games last season.
Trading for Cleveland is not the only Patriots move of the day. According to Ben Volin, the team will also release linebacker L.J. Fort:
Source says #Patriots are releasing LB LJ Fort today. Spent a couple weeks in camp. Should have suitors if/when he clears waivers
— Ben Volin (@BenVolin) August 18, 2015
With the moves, the team now has one open roster spot.