Patriots enter NFL season with roster concerns and new personnel additions

The New England Patriots head into their season opener facing uncertainties regarding team depth and chemistry. Head coach Mike Vrabel noted early in the preseason that the roster lacks sufficient depth, prompting recent front-office activity including trades for a running back and a tackle. The team added five players to the 53-man roster within the final two weeks of camp. Offensive line injuries remain a significant challenge, with Marcus Bryant starting the season on injured reserve and rookie Caleb Lomu moving into the lineup. Quarterback Drake Maye leads the offense following an MVP runner-up campaign, while the defense faces questions at the edge-rushing position due to the absence of Harold Landry III. The team finalized these adjustments after a limited preseason schedule for projected starters.

• 2:50 AMYahoo Sports — Pats preview: roster analysis, concerns & bright spots