6 Patriots Who Won't Survive the Preseason

4. Mitchell Wilcox, TE

Added in free agency after spending three years with the Cincinnati Bengals, Mitchell Wilcox doesn't have an easy path to the New England roster. He's already behind returning starter Hunter Henry and free agent addition Austin Hooper. He then fell farther down the depth chart when the Patriots selected Jaheim Bell in the seventh round of the 2024 NFL Draft.

Bell was expected to go much earlier than that after flashing his play-making potential with the USC Gamecocks and Florida State Seminoles. He was utilized both as a pass-catcher as well as a runner, getting the ball often out of the backfield while with Carolina. On Thursday, he had one reception for 11 yards which isn't exactly a breakout performance — but it was better than the showing Wilcox had.

On the field with the starters to begin the game, Wilcox was hit with a holding penalty on the opening drive. He also had a pass hit him in the hands, which he was unable to haul in. Sure, it was a little high from Jacoby Brissett but when you're trying to make the team, these are the catches you have to make.

Wilcox finished the night with five yards on one reception on four targets. If there was any good news for him, it would have to be that no other tight ends stood out. Still, it doesn't seem likely the Pats will be keeping four players at the position. With Bell having much more upside, he's the logical choice over the veteran.