Patriots Sign WR J.J. Worton and DB Cedric Thompson to the Practice Squad

The New England Patriots are in the middle of preparing for their first playoff game on Saturday against the visiting Kansas City Chiefs. But while most of the staff's focus will be placed on the upcoming opponent, the team is still working on its roster and practice squad.

Therefore, it does not come as a surprise to see reports about the Patriots making two practice squad transactions recently, signing wide receiver J.J. Worton (via Mike Reiss) as well as defensive back Cedric Thompson (via DEC Management):

Patriots are making some moves on their practice squad, as rookie WR JJ Worton of Central Florida is in town ready to join the club.

Congratulations to @miamidolphins 5th round pick @cedjunior2 on signing with the AFC East champion @Patriots practice squad

The 24-year old Worton was originally signed by the St. Louis Rams as an undrafted free agent earlier this year. However, his contract with the club expired after the Rams' season ended. The former Central Florida product subsequently had a workout with the Patriots and apparently has joined their practice squad yesterday.

As opposed to Worton, rookie defensive back Cedric Thompson was drafted this spring – he went in the fifth round (pick 150) to the Miami Dolphins. However, the 22-year old former Minnesota Golden Gopher was unable to make a lasting impact with the team and spent his rookie year on the practice squad. After Miami did not offer him a future's contract, Thompson became a free agent and according to his agency, has now been added to the Patriots' practice squad.

With both players in the fold, New England has to release one player off its practice squad (or promote him to the active roster). The moves have not yet been made official by the team, despite both players already having lockers at Gillette Stadium.