Patriots Bring Back Intriguing Prospect To Practice Squad

The Patriots took a risk in waiving cornerback Isaiah Bolden on Wednesday, as subjecting him to waivers could have meant losing out on working with one of their best developmental prospects on defense.

It paid off, though.

New England announced three roster moves Friday; signing both Bolden and linebacker Ochaun Mathis to the practice squad, and releasing Calvin Anderson from injured reserve.

Bolden, 24, should make an early impact following his return, as it's expected he'll be among the first practice-squad elevations during the early portion of the season. New England views him as a versatile piece in the secondary, who can not only work from both the slot and outside the numbers, but also has the flexibility to work on multiple special teams units.

Mathis, 25, was a sixth-round draft pick of the Los Angeles Rams in the 2023 NFL Draft. The 6-foot-5, 250-pounder, played in eight games as a rookie and was among the first to be cut from LA's training camp roster.

Anderson, 28, hasn't been able to stay on the field in New England. He battled a life-threatening case of malaria in 2023, playing in just five games before being sidelined for the remainder of the season. The Patriots lost him for nearly a week of practices in 2024, leading to his placement on IR.

The Patriots have filled 15-of-17 practice squad spots.