NFL Rumors: Patriots Should Fill Final List With Familiar Center | New England Patriots

The New England Patriots provide additional reassurance behind David Andrews.

Patriots are expected to sign center Tyler Gauthier for fill their last vacant place on the list, according to a report Monday from ESPN’s Mike Reiss. Gauthier reportedly visited the Patriots on Monday and must pass a physical and COVID-19 test before signing.

Gauthier is a familiar face for the Patriots, who signed him as an undrafted rookie in Miami last spring. Released in the latest roster cuts, the 23-year-old landed on the New England practice squad last October, then was signed by the Jacksonville Jaguars in December. He did not appear in a game for the Jaguars and was dropped last weekend.

The Patriots had been light on the proven depth behind Andrews, their starting center. Andrews, who is expected to return this season after missing the 2019 campaign with blood clots, was one of only two experienced snappers on New England’s list, with 2020 seventh-round pick Dustin Woodard. Hjalte Froholdt also has some college center experience, but has mainly played guard since joining the Patriots as a fourth round in 2019.

In addition to Gauthier, New England also agreed to terms Monday with running back Lamar Miller, according to their agent, and tight end Jordan Leggett and defensive tackle Darius Kilgo, according to reports.

The Patriots entered the day with four free spots on their 80-man roster after losing eight players to COVID-19 withdrawals. They filled the top four by re-signing undrafted rookies Will Hastings, Brian Lewerke and Isaiah Zuber and trading for cornerback Michael Jackson.

Thumbnail photo via Greg M. Cooper / USA TODAY Sports Images