In a move emphasizing depth and preparedness, the New England Patriots made two veteran additions to their practice squad on Wednesday, January 28, 2026. The team signed wide receiver Trent Sherfield Sr. and linebacker Patrick Johnson, bringing the 16-man practice squad back to full capacity as the team enters the final phase of preparation for Super Bowl LX against the Seattle Seahawks.
These signings are classic late-season insurance policies for a team on the cusp of the championship. Trent Sherfield Sr., now in his eighth NFL season, brings a wealth of experience. The 29-year-old receiver has 159 career receptions for 1,920 yards and 10 touchdowns across stints with Arizona, San Francisco, Miami, and Buffalo. He is a known commodity as a reliable special teams contributor and a savvy route-runner who can step into the offense if needed. His familiarity with high-pressure situations makes him a valuable asset in the meeting room and on the practice field as the Patriots’ receivers, led by Stefon Diggs, fine-tune their game plan.
Patrick Johnson, a sixth-year linebacker, provides depth at a position currently managing injuries. The 27-year-old has played in 68 career games, primarily as a core special teamer and situational edge defender. With starting linebacker Harold Landry III (knee) not participating in practice and Marte Mapu (hip) also sidelined, Johnson offers a veteran presence who can mimic opposing offensive looks in practice and provide emergency depth on game day.
To make room for these signings, the Patriots released defensive lineman Fabien Lovett and wide receiver Brandon Smith from the practice squad. These transactions reflect the specific needs of the moment: adding proven, playoff-tested veterans over younger developmental players for the final game of the season. Head Coach Mike Vrabel has consistently valued practice squad players who can push the active roster and be ready to contribute on a moment’s notice, a philosophy that is paramount during the Super Bowl bye week.