Earlier today, the New England Patriots seemingly received an open roster spot when defensive edge Rob Ninkovich decided to call it a career and retire after 11 years in the NFL. By that time, however, it appeared as if the veteran's vacant spot had already been filled – there was a mysterious player at practice wearing number 16.
Now, according to ESPN Boston's Mike Reiss, we know who the mystery player is:
WR KJ Maye, who played in college at Minnesota, has been signed to the Patriots' 90-man roster.
After a four-year career at Minnesota, wide receiver K.J. Maye went unselected during the 2016 NFL draft. Shortly afterwards, the New York Giants brought him aboard as a free agent. However, he was unable to stick with the team and was waived in August. Until December, the 5'10, 195 lbs wideout remained unsigned until the Tennessee Titans added him to their practice squad.
The Titans ultimately signed him to a futures contract following the season but decided to waive him in May. Now, Maye has found a new home and will serve as a depth wide receiver for the Patriots. His chances of actually making the team or even the practice squad appear to be quasi non-existent, though, given the competition he faces.