Patriots Gridiron News 11/2: All Eyes on Elandon Roberts

New England Patriots rookie linebacker Elandon Roberts is ready to step into the role left void due to the trade of Jamie Collins.

Elandon Roberts isn’t feeling the pressure, but the New England Patriots rookie linebacker is now in the spotlight. Following the trade of Pro-Bowl linebacker Jamie Collins Monday, the sixth-round pick suddenly has a bigger role on the team.

There will be other players who must help fill the void, but with how Roberts has played so far this season, he will be the one looked towards to execute the way Collins did. Roberts has no problem with the added responsibility.

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"“No pressure. It’s the name of the game,” Roberts said Tuesday via the Providence Journal. “I’m just going to take whatever I need to do in practice and we’re going to execute it in the game.“If the team needs me to do more, I’ll do more,” he added. “Whatever the team needs is what I’m here for. All I’m concerned about is the team and whatever we need to do to take our team to the next level, I’m willing to do.”"

The rookie got the start over Collins this following Sunday due to his play in previous games. Roberts ironically had a breakout game against Collins’ new team, the Cleveland Browns, in Week Five. He racked up seven tackles in that game and followed that up with another seven tackles a week later against the Cincinnati Bengals.

What is most impressive about Elandon Roberts is the confidence that goes along with his talent. While many were surprised he got the start over Collins against the Bills, Roberts just saw it as an opportunity.

"“My number was called and I was ready to go execute and once again it started in practice,” Roberts said."

Bishop Sankey: The Patriots have lost a running back off their practice squad. According to NFL.com, the Kansas City Chiefs have signed Bishop Sankey to add running back depth with featured running back Spencer Ware on the NFL’s concussion protocol. Sankey is a former second-round pick of the Tennessee Titans and was released from the team prior to the regular-season opener.

Practice squad: Per Patriots.com Tuesday, the team has announced the signing of OL Chase Farris and Tight end Austin Traylor to the practice squad. This is the second go-around for Farris who was released from the practice squad on Oct. 26.

Traylor, 23, entered the NFL as a rookie free agent with the Dallas Cowboys back in May. He is a big kid at 6-foot-3, 255 pounds and provides the Patriots with some depth at the position. During his college career, he caught 17 passes for 234 yards and four touchdowns. He is more of a blocking tight end.

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