Patriots sign former Buccaneers kick returner to the practice squad

The New England Patriots signed KR/PR/WR Bernard Reedy to the practice squad, according to the Tampa Bay Times, “with hopes of being promoted to the 53-man roster once he can learn the playbook.” Reedy was the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ kick and punt returner for the first nine weeks of the year.

Reedy ranks 8th in the NFL in yards per punt return and chipped in 20.7 yards per kick return. The 5’8, 175 receiver has spent time with both the Atlanta Falcons and Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

The Patriots are interested in Reedy because of his returns skills because they should reduce the reliance on Danny Amendola (4th in yards per punt return) and Dion Lewis on special teams due to their emerging roles on offense.

Reedy will join the Patriots practice squad and New England will have to make a corresponding roster move.

[UPDATE] The Patriots have released defensive lineman Mike Purcell to make room on their practice squad for Reedy.