New England Patriots: 5 players still on the roster bubble

6 of 6

FOXBORO, MA – NOVEMBER 13: A fan reacts before a game between the New England Patriots and the Seattle Seahawks at Gillette Stadium on November 13, 2016 in Foxboro, Massachusetts. (Photo by Adam Glanzman/Getty Images) /

LB Trevor Bates

Dont’a Hightower could be moving into a more permanent edge role, and that could free up a roster spot for a linebacker. In his second season, Trevor Bates from the University of Maine could make the cut.

Bates has played well when he’s been on the field defensively, and his play on special teams has been spectacular as well. He is likely in a battle for the final LB spot with Elandon Roberts right now, and he’s in need of a big game to make the jump past him. Right now, it looks like Bates may be right on the outside looking in as one of the final roster cuts.

The Patriots will hope to see a lot from all of these players and more, like Austin Carr, on Thursday night. For guys on the bubble, the final preseason game can provide them with a chance, and can be a springboard for the 2017 season.

Next: Hightower could be the answer on the edge

New England will face the Giants at Gillette Stadium on Thursday at 7:30 PM. You can catch the game on WBZ-TV CBS Boston or on the radio on 98.5 The Sports Hub. As always, keep it here on Chowder and Champions for the latest Patriots news.

Home/New England Patriots