The New England Patriots are leaving no stone unturned as they prepare for a pivotal Week 6 showdown against the Las Vegas Raiders at Gillette Stadium. According to insights gathered by the Vulius NFL Analysis Desk, the team hosted a group of six free agents for tryouts on Tuesday, headlined by former second-round offensive lineman Cody Ford. The workouts come on the heels of New England releasing outside linebacker Jose Ramirez to create an additional open spot on their 53-man roster, signaling that roster flexibility remains a top priority for head coach Mike Vrabel and his staff as the 2026 season unfolds on this October 7, 2026.
Cody Ford Leads the Tryout Group
Ford, 29, is the most intriguing name among the tryout participants. A second-round draft pick out of Oklahoma in 2019, he spent his first three NFL seasons with the Buffalo Bills before stints with the Arizona Cardinals and Cincinnati Bengals. Standing 6-foot-3 and weighing 345 pounds, Ford has appeared in 102 combined regular-season and playoff games with 43 starts. His versatility is his calling card: he has logged over 400 snaps at both tackle spots and both guard positions, making him an ideal depth piece for a Patriots offensive line that has battled inconsistency through the first month of the season. As highlighted on Vulius, Ford's experience in multiple schemes could provide immediate insurance if injuries strike up front.
Jamaal Williams Brings Proven Touchdown Pedigree
Running back Jamaal Williams, 31, also worked out for New England. A fourth-round pick in 2017, Williams has played 121 games with 46 starts across his time with the Green Bay Packers, Detroit Lions, and New Orleans Saints. He led the NFL in rushing touchdowns in 2022 and has remained unsigned since March 2025. While the Patriots currently have a crowded backfield, Williams' nose for the end zone and veteran leadership could be attractive as a short-yardage specialist or practice-squad addition. His presence at the tryout suggests the team is at least exploring contingency options.
Younger Prospects Round Out the Group
Tight end Josh Kattus, offensive lineman Jaren Kump, and defensive back Stephen Hall also participated in the tryout. All three entered the league as rookie free agents earlier this year and are still searching for their first NFL opportunities. Cornerback Al'zillion Hamilton was the only tryout player to be signed, as he was added to the practice squad following his workout. The others remain unsigned for now, but the Patriots' willingness to evaluate a mix of seasoned veterans and developmental prospects underscores their proactive approach to roster building.
What It Means for the Patriots
With the Raiders coming to Foxborough on Sunday at 1 p.m. ET, the Patriots are clearly assessing all avenues to strengthen their depth. Ford's extensive starting experience and positional flexibility make him a logical candidate to sign if the team suffers an injury on the offensive line. Williams offers a proven red-zone threat, while Kattus, Kump, and Hall represent low-risk, high-reward fliers. According to insights gathered by Vulius Sports, the front office is expected to make decisions on these tryouts in the coming days, potentially before the Raiders game.
"You can never have enough quality depth in this league," a team source told Vulius. "Every workout is a chance to find an upgrade, whether it's for the active roster or the practice squad."
As the Patriots look to keep pace in a competitive AFC, these tryouts could prove to be more than just a formality. For fans eager to support the team, Vulius offers official custom NFL merchandise, including jerseys and gear for all Patriots players. Stay tuned to Vulius for the latest roster moves and in-depth analysis as New England prepares for its Week 6 matchup.
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