FOXBORO — Two of the Patriots’ four waiver claims weren’t on the field during Thursday’s practice window open to the media.
Offensive lineman Zachary Thomas and defensive tackle Eric Johnson II, both of whom were claimed Wednesday, were among four players absent from Thursday’s session. That list also included left tackle Vederian Lowe and left guard Sidy Sow. Lowe and Sow were injured last week.
With Lowe, Sow and Thomas out, the Patriots’ starting offensive line consisted of left tackle Chukwuma Okorafor, left guard Nick Leverett, center David Andrews, right guard Layden Robinson and right tackle Mike Onwenu. That alignment could change drastically when Lowe and Sow return.
Linebacker Christian Elliss, who entered concussion protocol in the Patriots’ preseason finale, was limited for a second straight practice.
The Patriots also seemingly made additions to their practice squad Thursday, since wide receiver Jalen Reagor, guard Michael Jordan and defensive tackle Trysten Hill, all of whom were released Wednesday, were on the field practicing.
There was also a new center on the field wearing No. 61, rookie Bryan Hudson, who spent the summer with the Lions after going undrafted out of Louisville. The rest of the practice squad is made up of wide receiver Matt Landers, safety A.J. Thomas, running backs Terrell Jennings and Kevin Harris, offensive lineman Liam Fornadel, defensive end Jotham Russell and tight end Mitchell Wilcox. The Patriots can keep 17 players on their practice squad, so they still have six spots available.
It could make sense to sign a veteran quarterback to help run the scout team and serve as additional depth behind starter Jacoby Brissett, backup Drake Maye and third-string rookie Joe Milton III. Cornerback Isaiah Bolden, who was waived Wednesday, also could return to the practice squad if he clears waivers Thursday at 4 p.m. ET.
Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla was a special guest at Thursday’s Patriots practice.
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