After building their 53-man roster, the New England Patriots continue to work on their practice squad. So far, via our signings tracker, the team has been able to sign five players – exactly half of the 10-man limit. And according to reports, three more have been signed added.
Among them, according to the Boston Herald's Jeff Howe, is wide receiver Cody Hollister:
Cody Hollister back to the Patriots practice squad, per source. Twins reunited.
— Jeff Howe (@jeffphowe) September 3, 2017
Hollister and his twin brother Jacob, who made New England's 53-man roster as the third tight end, were both signed as undrafted rookie free agents after the draft. While Jacob was a standout performer, Cody threw a bit under the radar and finished the preseason with two receptions for 40 yards.
Given Hollister's limited impact during the preseason and the Patriots' depth at the wide receiver position, it was no surprise to see the 23-year old get released yesterday. However, after clearing waivers, he will return to New England via the practice squad – and join his brother on the Patriots' pay roll.
New England has also added two more players, according to reports:
Patriots are signing Trevor Bates to the practice squad, per source
— Mark Daniels (@MarkDanielsPJ) September 3, 2017
Looks like James Ferentz signed to the #Patriots practice squad.
— Doug Kyed (@DougKyed) September 3, 2017
Trevor Bates is experienced at being on the Patriots' practice squad: The 24-year old finished the 2016 season on New England's scout team after originally entering the league as a seventh round draft pick by the Indianapolis Colts earlier that same year. Ferentz, on the other hand, has not yet been part of New England's scout team. After stints with the Houston Texans and Denver Broncos, the Iowa product joined the team in May.