The Patriots activated Caedan Wallace from IR and cut Marcus Jones

Patriots

New England placed Jones on IR on Friday, ending his season.

The Patriots will see a long-awaited return to their offensive line while losing one of their most explosive players for the remainder of the season.

Rookie tackle Caedan Wallace has been activated from the injured reserve list and will be on New England’s 53-man roster for the final two games of the season. To make room for Wallace, the Patriots placed Marcus Jones on IR, ending his 2024 season.

Wallace played in various roles in New England’s first four games and took over the role of the team’s left tackle in the fourth and final game he played. Wallace suffered the injury in the game against the San Francisco 49ers and has not played in a game since.

While his activation isn’t a guarantee that Wallace will play in the Patriots’ final two games of the year, it’s at least a good sign. Jerod Mayo and Co. were careful not to bring Wallace back before he was ready to play games.

Wallace will be a name to keep an eye on Saturday, assuming he can play against the Los Angeles Chargers. New England would likely use him at right tackle, especially given Demontrey Jacobs’ struggles last week against the Bills. The Chargers are playing all of their stars and have guaranteed a spot in the playoffs with a win on Saturday.

The Bills, on the other hand, could rest their stars in Week 18 in case they likely have nothing to play for. Therefore, Saturday would be the best opportunity to see what Wallace can bring as a right tackle against stiff competition.

Considering how many needs New England has to meet in the offseason, it would be somewhat of a relief if Wallace could claim a consistent role on offense.

Jones had a strong 2024 season as a cover corner and punt return specialist, but a hip injury kept him out of Week 16 and is now ending his season.

Receiver Alex Erickson, who was a returning starter in Jones’ absence last week, was again called up from the practice squad and will likely help out in that capacity again in the final two games.

The Patriots-Chargers start Saturday at 1 p.m.