Breaking Pats Schedule Update: Key Week 1 Roster Moves

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Pats schedule developments have taken an important turn ahead of New England’s Week 1 matchup with the Seattle Seahawks. The Patriots announced Wednesday that they elevated running back Lan Larison and punter Mitch Wishnowsky from the practice squad to the active roster, adding depth and experience before the season opener.

The roster moves come as New England prepares to open its 2026 campaign in Seattle. The Patriots’ schedule begins with a difficult road assignment against the Seahawks, making every available roster spot especially important. The team has already ruled out running back TreVeyon Henderson for the opener because of an ankle injury, creating an immediate need for additional backfield support.

Breaking Pats Schedule News Before Week 1

Larison, 24, is familiar with the Patriots’ organization. New England originally signed him as a rookie free agent on May 9, 2025, after his college career at UC Davis. The 5-foot-11, 209-pound running back spent his rookie season on injured reserve before being released on Aug. 30 and re-signed to the practice squad on Sept. 1.

His elevation gives the Patriots another option behind their primary running backs. With Henderson inactive, Larison could be asked to contribute on offense, special teams or both. While his NFL experience is limited, his familiarity with the system may help him transition quickly into a game-day role.

Wishnowsky brings a different kind of reinforcement. The 34-year-old punter is a seven-year NFL veteran who has played for the San Francisco 49ers and Buffalo Bills. New England signed him to the practice squad on Aug. 31, shortly after Buffalo released him.

Why These Roster Moves Matter

Wishnowsky entered the league as a fourth-round selection by San Francisco in the 2019 NFL Draft after playing at Utah. He has appeared in 105 regular-season games and recorded 348 punts for 15,865 yards, averaging 45.6 yards per punt. He has also placed 156 punts inside the 20-yard line.

That experience could be valuable in a road game against Seattle, where field position and special teams execution may have a significant impact. A reliable punter can help flip the field, limit return opportunities and give the defense a better chance to defend short fields.

The move also provides insurance for New England’s special teams unit. The Patriots previously made several changes at the position during the offseason, and Wishnowsky’s history gives the club an experienced option for the season opener.

• Lan Larison was elevated to provide running back depth.
• Mitch Wishnowsky was elevated to strengthen the punting unit.
• TreVeyon Henderson is inactive for the opener with an ankle injury.
• The Patriots begin their 2026 schedule on the road against Seattle.

Patriots Face Immediate Test in Seattle

The Week 1 matchup is more than just the opening game on the Pats schedule. It is also an early test for head coach Mike Vrabel, quarterback Drake Maye and a roster looking to establish its identity. New England’s official coverage has highlighted the importance of moving forward, competing with urgency and building consistency from the opening whistle.

Seattle presents a challenging environment, particularly for a Patriots team introducing new contributors in key situations. Larison may need to adjust quickly if the running back rotation changes during the game, while Wishnowsky could be called upon to handle important fourth-down situations in a close contest.

The Patriots have also promoted two players from the practice squad before the opener, emphasizing how quickly an NFL roster can change during the regular season. Elevations allow teams to respond to injuries and matchup needs without immediately making permanent changes to the 53-man roster.

What to Watch on the Pats Schedule

Fans should monitor how New England distributes its running back touches, especially with Henderson unavailable. Larison’s workload could depend on the health and effectiveness of the players ahead of him, as well as the team’s plans for pass protection and special teams.

Wishnowsky’s performance will be another important storyline. His ability to create favorable field position may become particularly significant if the Patriots and Seahawks exchange defensive stands. Strong punting could help New England manage momentum during its first road game of the year.

The Patriots’ schedule also includes extensive postgame and Monday coverage, with coaches and players expected to review the Seattle matchup before turning toward the next challenge. The opening-week roster decisions offer an early glimpse at how New England intends to manage injuries, depth and special teams throughout the season.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who did the Patriots elevate before Week 1?

New England elevated running back Lan Larison and punter Mitch Wishnowsky from the practice squad to the active roster.

Why was Lan Larison elevated?

Larison provides additional running back depth after TreVeyon Henderson was ruled out for the season opener with an ankle injury.

What experience does Mitch Wishnowsky have?

Wishnowsky has played seven NFL seasons with the San Francisco 49ers and Buffalo Bills. He has appeared in 105 regular-season games.

When does the Patriots schedule begin?

New England opens its 2026 schedule on the road against the Seattle Seahawks in Week 1.

Can practice squad elevations play immediately?

Yes. Players elevated from the practice squad can participate in that week’s game, subject to NFL roster rules and game-day designations.