The New England Patriots now stand with an open spot on the practice squad.
The organization announced the release of rookie defensive tackle Jahvaree Ritzie on Tuesday, bringing the group down to 16 players.
Ritzie, 22, signed in Foxborough in May after going unselected in the 2025 NFL draft. Upon clearing waivers at the 53-man roster deadline, the University of North Carolina product was retained on the practice squad at its formation. He saw 61 defensive snaps in August preseason action, notching
three tackles and one quarterback pressure.
As a graduate student last fall in Chapel Hill, the 6-foot-4, 294-pound Ritzie had a hand in 40 tackles, 6.5 sacks, one forced fumble and an interception return for a touchdown. Third-team All-ACC honors followed. His Tar Heels career spanned 51 games.
The position has been subject to turnover.
Last week, defensive tackles Cory Durden and Fabien Lovett were added to a practice squad that also includes David Olajiga through the NFL’s International Player Pathway. And entering Labor Day weekend, Eric Gregory was claimed off waivers from the Cincinnati Bengals, joining Christian Barmore, Milton Williams, Khyiris Tonga, Joshua Farmer and Jeremiah Pharms Jr. on the active depth chart.
The Las Vegas Raiders visit Gillette Stadium for the opening game of the regular season on Sunday. Kickoff is set for 1 p.m. ET.
