The Patriots were relatively quiet around the trade deadline, but that doesn’t mean they’re done making moves.
New England reportedly worked out a number of free agents on Tuesday, bringing in defensive lineman Pheldarius Payne, running backs Zach Evans, Nathaniel Peat and Isaiah Spiller, and linebackers Justin Hollins and Monty Rice, according to Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston.
Rice ultimately was the only player to sign, joining the practice squad.
What makes these workouts so intriguing?
The Patriots sure seem focused on updating their list of emergency running backs, bringing in three options despite already currently rostering Rhamondre Stevenson, Antonio Gibson and JaMycal Hasty. New England doesn’t seem intent on making a move, though Hasty missed practice on Wednesday due to a personal issue, so the need for another body might be there.
Spiller, 23, is the most intriguing candidate to sign. The Los Angeles Chargers selected him in the fourth round of the 2022 NFL Draft, though he appeared in just 15 games over the course of two seasons and averaged a whopping 2.5 yards per carry.
New England has a couple of backs on the practice squad in Terrell Jennings and Kevin Harris, so even if an active roster spot opens up, they would fill it. It’s not quite that simple, though.
Intriguing, indeed.
