The New England Patriots are one of the rebuilding teams in the NFL right now.
They just recently made the move to name rookie Drake Maye the starter ahead of their matchup against the Houston Texans this weekend.
Additionally, according to the team’s social media page, they made the call to re-sign undrafted wide receiver John Jiles to the practice squad.
The 24-year-old pass-catcher was originally signed out of West Florida by the New York Giants back in May but was released in August.
While at West Florida, Jiles set the school record in receiving yards (1,255) on 66 catches.
The 6-3, 220-pound receiver is a bigger receiver who could be a solid player to have on the practice squad.
With the youth that is on this Patriots offense, now could be the time to give some younger players an opportunity.
Drake Maye, receivers Ja’Lynn Polk, DeMario Douglas, and Javon Baker, along with running back Rhamondre Stevenson, are all 26 years or younger.
This Pats team is currently sitting at 1-4 and is likely going to continue to take its lumps.
However, this experience is going to be crucial for the growth of the team moving forward.
Perhaps a younger practice squad player like Jiles could earn some opportunities in practice, which could allow him to earn the trust of his coaches and teammates.
Time will tell to see what he can do in the short term for head coach Jerod Mayo.
But Pats fans should look for small moments of growth here and there, not necessarily wins.
