The New England Patriots made a roster move on Thursday, releasing rookie cornerback Ameer Speed.
Speed, a sixth-round pick out of Michigan State, has played in five of New England’s first six games, emerging as a key special teamer. He also received 10 snaps on defense in a 34-0 loss to the New Orleans Saints on Oct. 8.
Because Speed has already carved out a role as a first-year pro, ESPN’s Mike Reiss theorized that the Pats intend to keep Speed around on the practice squad if he clears waivers.
Speed was reportedly at practice today.
The Patriots released rookie core special teamer Ameer Speed today. He was a sixth-round pick out of Michigan State.
This could be roster manipulation due to injuries, with intention to bring Speed back on the practice squad if he clears waivers. Speed was at practice today.
— Mike Reiss (@MikeReiss) October 19, 2023
Speed has made three tackles in his first five NFL games. He was inactive in Week 2 against the Miami Dolphins, but otherwise has played in 46% or more of the Patriots’ special teams snaps in their other matchups.
New England is 1-5 on the year, its worst start since Bill Belichick’s first season running the team in 2000. The Patriots take on the Buffalo Bills this Sunday.