New England Patriots: Suddenly Release Veteran Offensive Lineman Ahead of Week 7

The New England Patriots signed Nick Leverett to serve as the backup center to David Andrews for the 2024 season. Andrews’ 2024 campaign came to an abrupt end after suffering a season-ending torn rotator cuff in their Week 4 matchup against the San Francisco 49ers, and Leverett got the nod as the starting center in their Week 5 matchup against the Miami Dolphins. He had a disastrous performance against the Dolphins, surrendering ten pressures, five hurries, four hits, and one sack-allowed h/t PFF.

The team made a position change.

The New England Patriots newcomer got the nod in Week 6

The Patriots started Ben Brown at center instead of Nick Leverett because Leverett was a game-time decision with an ankle injury. The team poached Brown off the Las Vegas Raiders practice squad on Wednesday night, and after two practices, the coaching staff told him he was starting on Sunday morning. He did not disappoint and was arguably their best offensive lineman against the Houston Texans in Week 6, allowing zero pressures, hurries, hits, and sacks.

The Patriots appear satisfied with Brown at center for the foreseeable future. Unfortunately, the team isn’t content with their veteran lineman. They made a roster move earlier today.

The team announced devastating news

According to Adam Schefter of ESPN, the New England Patriots have released Nick Leverett. Cutting Leverett leaves the Patriots thin at the position, and Ben Brown remains the only center on their active roster. He should draw interest from multiple teams since he is a versatile offensive lineman who can play multiple positions on the offensive line.

Patriots are releasing veteran offensive lineman Nick Leverett.

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) October 14, 2024

Who will serve as the backup center?

The New England Patriots could promote Bryan Hudson from the practice squad to their active roster. Hudson played college football for the Virginia Tech Hokies and Louisville Cardinals and mostly played at center during his collegiate career. The Detroit Lions signed him as an undrafted free agent.

The Lions released him during the roster cutdown deadline, and the Patriots signed him to their practice squad shortly after. The Patriots elevated Hudson for Week 5 and have two more gameday elevations until the team has to sign him to the active roster for a fourth elevation.

Another option is Cole Strange. Strange remains on the PUP list, but the team has expressed interest in playing him at center once he returns to the football field. He doesn’t have much experience there but played center during the Senior Bowl.

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