Patriots Re-Sign 6-Foot-7 Lineman with Local Connections
The New England Patriots have re-signed rookie undrafted free agent (UDFA) offensive lineman Jack Conley to their practice squad. Conley, who had spent training camp with the team, was among the final roster cuts made when the Patriots had to trim their roster to the 53-man limit on August 26. A standout at Boston College, Conley played guard in college and impressed during the preseason, logging 76 snaps across three games without allowing a sack. 
In a corresponding move, the Patriots have waived guard Mike Conley from the practice squad. Mike Conley, another rookie UDFA out of Arkansas State, had started the season on the practice squad before this change.
Patriots’ Offensive Line Needs Strengthening
The Patriots’ offensive line is still a work in progress. Right guard Mike Onwenu is the only returning starter from last season, as the team has made it a priority to bring in new faces. Rookie Will Campbell, the No. 4 overall pick, is the starting left tackle and holds high expectations, though he had some struggles in his debut last week. Another rookie, third-round pick Jared Wilson, is starting at left guard after playing center in college.
The veteran presence on the line is limited, with right tackle Morgan Moses being the oldest member of the group. However, Moses has shown signs of slowing down. Center Garrett Bradbury, a free-agent addition from Minnesota, is solid but wasn’t considered a top priority for the Vikings this offseason.
Depth is also a concern, as the backup options behind the starters are unproven. With the line already thin, injuries could quickly cause problems for the Patriots’ offense. While Conley is currently on the practice squad, his strong preseason performance gives him a chance to be called up sooner than expected.
A Key Challenge for the Patriots in Week 2
The Patriots face a tough challenge in Week 2 when they travel to Miami to take on the Dolphins, who were blown out by the Colts in Week 1. Despite their opening loss, the Dolphins are a talented team with a dynamic offensive core, including quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, running back De’Von Achane, and wide receivers Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle, all led by head coach Mike McDaniel. Just a few years ago, the Dolphins were contending with the Bills for the division title.
The Patriots, who also lost their opener to the Raiders, are desperate for a win, but the Dolphins are favored, given their overall talent. However, Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel is known for his ability to prepare his team, and if New England can pull off a win in Miami, it would boost their confidence and give the young team momentum.
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