Image Source: New England Patriots
The Patriots will close out the 2026 preseason Thursday night with a critical visit to the Cleveland Browns, and the final game could have a major impact on the team’s 53-man roster. With cutdown day scheduled for Sunday, players on the roster bubble have one last opportunity to make an impression.
New England’s preseason finale arrives less than two weeks before the regular-season opener. While some starters could see limited action, the primary focus will be on the depth chart and the young players competing for special teams roles, defensive snaps and backup duties.
Patriots Special Teams Battle Takes Center Stage
Special teams may be the most important area to watch in Cleveland. The unit underwent significant changes after ranking 23rd in DVOA in 2025, and several players are still competing to secure roles on coverage and protection teams.
The punter position has become especially important following an injury to Bryce Baringer in last week’s game against the Philadelphia Eagles. New England responded by signing veteran punter Matt Haack, who brings nine years of NFL experience and appeared in seven games for the Arizona Cardinals last season.
Haack could be forced into an important role during the regular season, making his performance against Cleveland particularly meaningful. His operation with the snapper and holder, along with his ability to handle pressure, will be closely evaluated.
Kicker Andy Borregales also enters the finale with momentum. After missing a potential winning kick against the Indianapolis Colts in the preseason opener, Borregales responded by connecting on two kicks from beyond 50 yards at the end of a joint practice with the Eagles. He has continued to show consistency throughout the week.
Coverage and protection units will provide opportunities for veterans such as K.J. Britt and Chad Muma, as well as rookies including Namdi Obiazor and Karon Prunty. Running backs Hassan Haskins and Lan Larison, along with edge players Brady Swinson and Quintayvious Hutchins, could also strengthen their roster cases through special teams play.
Explosive Edge Rushers Face a Defining Test
The Patriots’ edge-rushing competition is another major storyline. Rookie second-round pick Gabe Jacas has received strong praise from linebackers coach Mike Smith, who described the young defender as athletic, physical and deeply committed to football.
Jacas has recorded 61 defensive snaps this summer, the fifth-highest total among New England defenders. His late start to the preseason has not stopped the coaching staff from giving him meaningful opportunities, and another energetic performance could help secure a regular rotational role.
Dre’Mont Jones and Elijah Ponder have occupied the top two edge spots for much of camp. Jacas, Swinson, Hutchins, Jesse Luketa and Amari Gainer have shared the remaining opportunities while competing for roster positions.
The need for a reliable third edge rusher is clear, particularly while Harold Landry remains out of the lineup. A strong showing from Jacas or another depth player could ease concerns about the position and give the Patriots more flexibility on defense.
Running Back Injuries Add Urgency
New England’s running back competition has become more uncertain because of several recent injuries. Larison practiced in a red jersey, Jam Miller missed time before returning and leaving practice early, and TreVeyon Henderson sat out Tuesday after slipping during Monday’s session.
Hassan Haskins and JaMycal Hasty are expected to be available, while veteran Rhamondre Stevenson and Henderson were unlikely to receive extensive preseason work. Miller and Larison, however, may be limited as they attempt to make their final arguments for roster spots.
Haskins has impressed since joining the team as a street free agent during training camp. His tackle-breaking style has stood out, and his return ability could provide additional value on game day. A productive performance against Cleveland may give him an inside track in a crowded position group.
Miller and Larison have also delivered promising moments. Miller displayed explosive speed on a run against the Eagles, while Larison showed impressive contact balance by converting a fourth-and-one after being hit in the backfield.
Their availability could be just as important as their production. With injuries affecting the group at an unfortunate time, every carry, block and special teams snap could influence the final roster decisions.
Why Thursday’s Finale Matters
The preseason finale is not simply a final tuneup. It is a decisive evaluation for players trying to remain with the Patriots beyond Sunday’s cuts. Coaches will be watching technique, effort, assignment discipline and the ability to contribute in multiple phases.
Special teams, edge rushing and running back depth all contain unresolved questions. A standout performance could change the outlook for a player who appeared to be on the outside of the roster picture, while a mistake-filled night could create an opening for a competitor.
As per Patriots.com, the team is preparing for a demanding road test before turning its attention to the regular-season opener. For New England’s roster hopefuls, the message is simple: every rep matters, including those on kickoffs, punts and field-goal attempts.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do the Patriots play the Browns?
The Patriots visit the Cleveland Browns on Thursday night, August 27, 2026, in the preseason finale.
Why are special teams so important for New England?
The Patriots changed a significant portion of their special teams unit after it ranked 23rd in DVOA last season. Several players are still competing for coverage and protection roles.
Who is competing at edge rusher?
Gabe Jacas, Brady Swinson, Quintayvious Hutchins, Jesse Luketa and Amari Gainer are among the players competing for depth roles behind Dre’Mont Jones and Elijah Ponder.
Which running backs are facing uncertainty?
Lan Larison and Jam Miller are dealing with recent injury concerns while competing for roster spots. Hassan Haskins and JaMycal Hasty are also expected to receive opportunities.
