The New England Patriots announced they are elevating veteran linebacker Joe Giles-Harris from the practice squad to the 53-man roster for Thursday’s game against the New York Jets.
Giles-Harris had a strong training camp and preseason, but he ultimately failed to make the final roster. However, the Patriots wasted little time signing him to their practice squad with Ja’Whaun Bentley out for the season with a torn pectoral muscle.
Raekwon McMillan is expected to take on more responsibilities for the Patriots, but Giles-Harris can aid in those efforts by offering them a solid depth option for the team against a loaded Jets offense.
Giles-Harris, who has mostly played on special teams, didn’t see a single snap with the Patriots last season. During the exhibition slate, he proved that he’s capable of contributing more than just on special teams. He even snagged an interception, along with five tackles and a pass deflection, in the Patriots’ preseason finale against the Washington Commanders.
We’ll see if that effort is enough to earn him his first regular season snap in a Patriots uniform on Thursday.