The New England Patriots did not only prepare for their upcoming game against the Pittsburgh Steelers this week, they also brought three players in for free agency workouts. While it is highly unlikely that one of the trio will join the Patriots’ active roster anytime soon, they might become relevant for the practice squad or more realistically future contracts after the season ended.
LB Samuel Eguavoen
After his college career at Texas Tech, Samuel Eguavoen went undrafted in 2015. In early 2016, he joined the Canadian Football League’s Saskatchewan Roughriders. Since then, the 6’0, 230 lbs linebacker appeared in 38 games for the team — with his best season coming this year: in 18 contests, Eguavoen registered 81 tackles, 3.0 sacks, an interception, and two forced fumbles. Primarily a coverage linebacker, the 25-year old lacks ideal size but brings plenty of speed to the table.
OT Ryker Mathews
Ryker Mathews also went undrafted and originally entered the NFL as a free agency signing by the New Orleans Saints in 2016. However, he failed to make an impact and was ultimately placed on injured reserve with a knee injury three months after joining the team. After getting released with an injury settlement, the 6’6, 320 lbs lineman remained on the open market. In summer 2017, he ultimately joined the CFL’s Hamilton Tiger-Cats and has since played 26 games for the team. While Mathews plays with good core strength, he lacks overall athleticism and can be seen as a project.
WR Tim Wilson
After four years at Division II’s East Stroudsburg — during which he caught 133 passes for 2,042 yards and 16 touchdowns — Tim Wilson went undrafted earlier this year. The 5’9, 170 lbs wideout, was subsequently signed by the Philadelphia Eagles and caught three passes for 28 yards during the preseason. However, he failed to make the team’s 53-man roster or practice squad and remained on the open market ever since his release.