While they have had a rather busy offseason in terms of transactions, the New England Patriots have been quiet lately. Since signing free agent linebacker David Harris one month ago and subsequently releasing wide receiver DeAndrew White, the team has not many any personnel moves – until today.
With training camp right around the corner, the Patriots have waived interior offensive lineman Chase Farris as first reported by ESPN Boston's Mike Reiss (and since confirmed by the team):
The Patriots have waived guard Chase Farris with a non-football injury designation. Farris was on practice squad in 2016. 2nd-unit in spring
After signing with the Detroit Lions as an undrafted rookie last season, Farris joined the Patriots' practice squad in early October. Except for a short stint as a free agent in late October, the Ohio State product finished the rest of his first NFL campaign on New England’s scout team. Following the season, Farris was signed to a one-year futures contract.
However, the 24-year old was a long shot to ultimately make the team's 53-man roster or even the practice squad. His release does therefore not come as a surprise even though the exact nature of his injury is not yet known. What is known is that the Patriots now have one open spot on their roster – a spot that might get filled with another offensive lineman.
After all, the team currently only has four true interior options behind the starting trio of Joe Thuney, David Andrews and Shaq Mason under contract: Ted Karras, who held that role last season, as well as James Ferentz, Jamil Douglas and undrafted rookie Jason King. Undrafted rookie Cole Croston might also be another interior option.