As the New England Patriots prepare for a crucial AFC Divisional Round playoff game against the Houston Texans, the organization has made a deliberate series of roster adjustments designed to fortify depth and versatility ahead of the postseason push. Among the most notable of these changes was the addition of veteran wide receiver Trent Sherfield Sr. to the team’s practice squad, bolstering the receiver room with experience and special teams upside.

On Tuesday, the Patriots announced several moves to their developmental roster — signing cornerback Miles Battle, running back D’Ernest Johnson, offensive tackle Lorenz Metz, and wide receiver Trent Sherfield Sr. to the practice squad. To make room for these additions, defensive lineman Fabien Lovett and wide receiver Brandon Smith were released.

Veteran Presence Added at Receiver

The addition of Trent Sherfield Sr. stands out as a strategic move to inject veteran savvy into New England’s receiving corps. Sherfield, 29, brings a wealth of NFL experience to the Patriots’ practice squad and is poised to provide reliable depth in a position group that could face attrition as the postseason unfolds.

Originally undrafted out of Vanderbilt in 2018, Sherfield has forged an eight-year professional career defined by adaptability and perseverance. Prior to joining New England, he spent time with multiple NFL franchises including the Arizona Cardinals, San Francisco 49ers, Miami Dolphins, Buffalo Bills, Minnesota Vikings, and Denver Broncos. Over the course of his career, Sherfield has appeared in 124 regular-season games, recording 89 receptions for 1,034 yards and six touchdowns — numbers that reflect his ability to contribute both on offense and special teams.

Although he was not a primary target during the 2025 regular season, Sherfield’s career trajectory demonstrates his utility as a dependable veteran presence. His experience navigating different offensive systems and contributing in multiple roles offers the Patriots flexibility as they respond to injuries, game-day elevations, or matchup-based roster decisions.

Other Practice Squad Moves

Alongside Sherfield’s signing, D’Ernest Johnson, a seasoned running back with experience on several NFL rosters, also joined the Patriots’ practice squad. Johnson brings special teams value and rotational depth at a position that is critical for playoff success, especially in the grind of postseason play.

Another noteworthy addition is Lorenz Metz, a massive offensive tackle who comes via the NFL’s International Player Pathway program. Metz’s presence adds size and tackle depth at a time when NFL teams increasingly prioritize protecting their quarterbacks and establishing strong line play in cold-weather contests.

Cornerback Miles Battle, who previously spent time with the organization and has familiarity with the Patriots’ defensive schemes, also returned to the practice squad as part of this wave of signings. His re-addition may prove valuable as the secondary adjusts to the physical demands of playoff football.

Strategic Rationale Behind the Additions

These practice squad adjustments reflect a broader strategy by the Patriots to improve roster flexibility and depth as they enter the postseason. Practice squad signings are a key mechanism teams use late in the year to explore potential contributors, prepare for injuries, and create competitive environments in practice. Given the Patriots’ position as the No. 2 seed in the AFC, head coach Bill Belichick and his staff are clearly aiming to fortify every phase of the roster.

By investing in experienced players like Sherfield and Johnson, New England retains the ability to elevate seasoned performers — if needed — without forcing less-prepared players into crucial moments during high-stakes games. Additionally, players like Metz and Battle bring developmental upside that could pay dividends not just this season but in future roster constructions.

Looking Ahead: Divisional Round Focus

With these new signings in place, the Patriots now shift their attention fully back to preparing for the Texans. The Divisional Round match is scheduled for Sunday at Gillette Stadium, and New England will look to leverage its deep roster and playoff experience to advance further in the postseason. As game day approaches, these practice squad additions could play an integral — if behind-the-scenes — role in New England’s efforts to capture another AFC title and keep their Super Bowl aspirations alive.