As the New England Patriots face the Washington Commanders in their preseason finale, here are three players who could make a strong case for the 53-man roster.
Bollywood Fever: The New England Patriots are set to close their 2024 preseason campaign on Sunday night with a matchup against the Washington Commanders at Commanders Field, with kickoff scheduled for 7 p.m.
While several players have solidified their spots on the roster, others will use this final preseason game as an opportunity to prove their worth and secure a place on the 53-man roster.
Here are three players to watch closely as the Patriots take the field.
Kayshon Boutte
Kayshon Boutte, a promising wide receiver from LSU, has been one of the Patriots’ standout performers during training camp.
Despite catching six passes for 76 yards (12.7 yards per reception) in the first two preseason games, Boutte finds himself in a tough competition for a roster spot.
His exceptional route-running and catch radius have been impressive, but he is currently trailing behind Tyquan Thornton and Jalen Reagor in many roster projections due to their speed and return skills.
Selected by the Patriots in the sixth round of the 2023 NFL Draft (No. 187 overall), Boutte has yet to fully showcase his potential in the NFL.
He played in five games for the Patriots last season, recording two catches for 19 yards. Despite past legal challenges, Boutte has earned praise from head coach Jerod Mayo for his performance in offseason workouts.
To secure his place on the roster, Boutte will need to demonstrate the same prowess that made him a standout at LSU.
Expect him to see significant playing time against the Commanders as he tries to make a lasting impression.
Armon Watts
Armon Watts, a five-year NFL veteran who signed a one-year, $3 million contract with the Patriots in March, was expected to be a key contributor on the defensive line.
However, the 27-year-old has had a relatively quiet summer, with limited production during both training camp and the preseason.
Watts has played in 72 career games, making 22 starts, and has recorded 140 total tackles, 8.5 sacks, three forced fumbles, and one pass deflection.
His best season came in 2021 with the Minnesota Vikings, where he posted 20 tackles and five sacks.
With other linemen like Jeremiah Pharms Jr. and Daniel Ekuale projected ahead of him on the depth chart, Watts will need to showcase aggression and tenacity in the preseason finale to bolster his case for a roster spot.
Dell Pettus
The Patriots have a history of developing undrafted rookie free agents, and Dell Pettus could be their next success story.
The 23-year-old defensive back has logged 10 total tackles in two preseason appearances and has shown potential as a versatile defender.
Pettus had a stellar college career at Troy, playing in 63 games (with 61 consecutive starts) and compiling 315 tackles, 14 passes defensed, two fumble recoveries, one interception, and one sack.
He’s capable of playing free safety, box safety, and slot defender, and he was a core special teamer, finishing his college career with over 4,000 combined snaps.
Pettus’ versatility could give him an inside track at making the Patriots’ 53-man roster, and a strong performance against the Commanders could solidify his position.
As the Patriots wrap up their preseason with a final showdown against the Commanders, these three players have the chance to make a lasting impression and secure their spots on the team. Keep an eye on Boutte, Watts, and Pettus as they aim to prove their worth in this crucial game.
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