In an effort to strengthen their roster ahead of the upcoming season, the New England Patriots have made several key acquisitions through the waiver wire. The team, ranked third in the waiver priority, successfully claimed offensive tackles Zachary Thomas and Demontrey Jacobs, defensive tackle Eric Johnson, and linebacker Curtis Jacobs. These pickups come as part of the team's ongoing efforts to improve and continue its winning tradition.

Zachary Thomas, a 26-year-old offensive tackle, was awarded to the Patriots from the Los Angeles Rams. Standing at an imposing 6-foot-5 and weighing 300 pounds, Thomas has shown promise since entering the league as a sixth-round draft pick out of San Diego State in 2022. While he initially started his rookie year on the practice squad of the Chicago Bears, he eventually earned a spot on the 53-man roster.

Demontrey Jacobs, 25, brings his talents to New England after being claimed from the Denver Broncos. The 6-foot-6, 315-pound tackle played college football at both Grambling State and South Florida. Although he initially signed as an undrafted free agent in 2023, Jacobs was retained on a futures contract after spending his rookie year on the practice squad.

Eric Johnson, a 26-year-old defensive tackle, joins the Patriots after starting his career with the Indianapolis Colts. Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 299 pounds, Johnson is a formidable force on the defensive line. In his career thus far, he has made 28 appearances, registering 18 tackles, one sack, and one fumble recovery.

Curtis Jacobs, 22, was recently waived by the Kansas City Chiefs after going undrafted in 2024. However, thanks to the Patriots' successful waiver claim, this talented linebacker now has a new opportunity to showcase his skills. Standing at 6-foot-1 and weighing 241 pounds, Jacobs had an impressive tenure at Penn State, starting 36 games and accumulating 170 tackles, 9.5 sacks, two interceptions, one forced fumble, and one touchdown.

These four waiver claims by the Patriots rank second in the league, only behind the Carolina Panthers' six claims. Head coach Jerod Mayo expressed his satisfaction with the team's approach to improving the roster, stating, "We're always looking for ways to improve the roster... whether it's through trades, the waiver wire, or getting guys off the street."

Following the acquisition of these new players, corresponding moves will soon be made to adjust the initial 53-man roster, which was finalized on Tuesday. Additionally, the formation of the practice squad is currently underway, as the Patriots continue their preparations for the upcoming NFL season.