Free agent signing expected to make his Patriots debut in Week 6

Mike Masala

Free agent signing expected to make his Patriots debut in Week 6 image

Mandatory Credit: Jeff Lange/Beacon Journal

The New England Patriots are preparing for their Week 6 battle with the Houston Texans at Gillette Stadium on Sunday, but they'll be doing so with a new addition to the 53-man roster.

On Saturday, New England activated linebacker Sione Takitaki from reserve/PUP after he missed all of training camp and the first five games of the 2024 regular season due to a knee injury.

The Patriots signed Takitaki to a two-year, $6.65 million deal this offseason after he spent the first seasons of his career with the Cleveland Browns. Last year, he appeared in 15 games (starting seven), recording 65 tackles (three for a loss), three quarterback hits, three passes defensed and two sacks.

With Ja'Whaun Bentley landing on season-ending injured reserve already, Takitaki could step in and take on a large role in New England's defense alongside Jahlani Tavai and Raekwon McMillan. 

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Mike Masala

Mike Masala Photo

Mike Masala previously served as the Managing Editor of USA TODAY's Dolphins Wire as well as a contributing writer at Patriots Wire. A lifelong New England resident, he is the self-proclaimed captain and lone member of the Laurence Maroney Fan Club. Follow on Twitter/X: @Mike_Masala