The Patriots made some waves earlier today with a surprising roster move. Here’s more on that and the dominoes that could fall as a result as New England gets set to take on the Bengals tomorrow at Gillette Stadium..
- Ben Volin of The Boston Globe (via Twitter) hears that Kenbrell Thompkins could circle back to New England rather quickly after he was released earlier today by the Patriots. Unless he’s claimed off waivers, Thompkins could be re-signed to the practice squad.
- A source tells Jeff Howe of The Boston Herald (Twitter link) that the Patriots informed Thompkins that his release was due to a numbers crunch on the depth chart. The Pats let him know that they needed a linebacker on the active roster, forcing them to release him and activate Ja’Gared Davis from the practice squad. So, despite what some may have first thought, Thompkins isn’t out a job due to any sort of disciplinary issue.
- Meanwhile, the Patriots will have a decision to make on cornerback Brandon Browner and wide receiver Brian Tyms. Both players are coming off of four-game bans and have received roster exemptions through October 6th. With a clear need for a deep threat, one would think that the Pats would try and find room for Tyms after tomorrow’s game. Same goes for Browner, who signed a three-year deal with the Pats this offseason. Both players would receive a good deal of interest if they hit the open market next week, especially the 6’4″ Browner.