The dust is still settling from the NFL’s 53-man roster deadline, and the New England Patriots are already facing some tough news, placing punter Bryce Baringer and linebacker Khalil Jacobs on injured reserve Monday evening. This means both guys are out for at least four games to kick off the 2026 regular season, a real gut punch for their special teams and defensive depth.
The Punting Game Is Officially On Notice
This move for Baringer, at 27 years old, is a big deal. The guy has been a consistent presence for New England, appearing in all 51 games since he was drafted in the sixth round back in 2023. Not only has he handled the punting, averaging 47.9 yards per kick with some absolute bombs like a 79, 75, and 73-yarder in his tenure, but he’s also been on holding duties. His injury, sustained in the second preseason game, even forced quarterback Behren Morton into emergency punter duty. Now the Pats are rolling with Matt Haack to close out August, and they’ve already added veteran free agent Mitch Wishnowsky to the initial practice squad. That’s a lot of churn at a crucial position so early in the year.
Jacobs’ Undrafted Opportunity Hits A Snag
Khalil Jacobs, just 23, pulled off something awesome by making the 53-man roster as an undrafted rookie, even after missing the preseason finale with his own injury. That’s grit right there! Before he went down, the linebacker showed some real promise, racking up eight tackles and getting one start in August action. The guy was signed in May after putting in two years at South Alabama and two years at Missouri, where he appeared in all 13 games in 2025, notching 47 tackles and three sacks. Missing him for four games is a blow to the defensive depth he was supposed to provide right out of the gate.
Look, this is not how you want to start the season. The earliest Baringer and Jacobs can hit the field again is that October matchup against the Las Vegas Raiders at Gillette Stadium. In the meantime, the Patriots are busy trying to plug holes, claiming tight end Cameron Latu and linebacker Darius Muasau off waivers, and releasing vested veterans Ben Brown and K.J. Britt to make room. They also announced 12 practice squad signings. It’s clear the Patriots have a lot of work ahead of them to stabilize their roster after these early hits.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Pats Pulpit.
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