The Patriots are making strategic moves to strengthen their roster ahead of Sunday’s crucial matchup with the Dolphins by promoting linebacker Keshawn Banks and tight end Jack Westover from the practice squad. These additions come as New England faces potential depth issues in their defense, particularly within the front seven.
Banks, who made his Patriots debut last week against the Rams, primarily on special teams, could see an expanded role on defense this time. His promotion comes as linebackers Anfernee Jennings and Sione Takitaki are both listed as questionable with knee injuries. The Patriots are also dealing with uncertainty at defensive end, as Deatrich Wise Jr. and Keion White are both questionable for the game. With these potential absences, Banks could be called upon to provide much-needed depth in the linebacker corps.
The 24-year-old Banks, a product of San Diego State, joined New England’s practice squad a month ago after being released by the Green Bay Packers following training camp. Although he hasn’t recorded an NFL tackle yet, this Sunday’s game could provide his first opportunity to make an impact on defense.
Meanwhile, Westover, who joined the Patriots’ practice squad in October, is poised to make his NFL debut. The former Washington tight end had initially signed with the Seattle Seahawks as an undrafted free agent but was waived due to an injury designation after training camp. At 6-foot-2 and 245 pounds, Westover’s size and his prior connection with college teammate Ja’Lynn Polk could potentially help spark the Patriots’ struggling receiver group.
These roster changes come at a critical time for New England as they attempt to break a four-game losing streak. The Patriots will take on the Dolphins at Hard Rock Stadium, with the kickoff set for 1 p.m. ET.
