Patriots Sign Two Offensive Linemen In Four-Player Roster Shakeup

Patriots Sign Two Offensive Linemen In Four-Player Roster Shakeup originally appeared on NESN.
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The New England Patriots made four roster moves Saturday as Mike Vrabel’s team continued adjusting its depth following its preseason opener. New England signed offensive linemen Darrian Dalcourt and Joe Michalski, adding two versatile interior options to the training camp roster. The Patriots also released long snapper Niko Lalos and placed guard Andrew Rupcich on injured reserve.

The moves come two days after New England opened its preseason schedule against the Indianapolis Colts at Gillette Stadium. With roster decisions approaching, the Patriots are using the remaining weeks of camp to evaluate potential depth pieces throughout the offensive line.

Patriots Add Two Interior Linemen

Dalcourt entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent with the Baltimore Ravens in 2024. The 25-year-old spent his rookie season on Baltimore’s practice squad before being released at the end of training camp in 2025. The 6-foot-3, 309-pound lineman later spent time on the practice squads of the Washington Commanders, Carolina Panthers and Cleveland Browns.

Patriots make a series of roster moves: https://t.co/HM0X6x20YIpic.twitter.com/82dhrNzJx3

— New England Patriots (@Patriots) August 15, 2026

Dalcourt played his college football at Alabama, where he appeared at center and guard. His familiarity with multiple interior positions could help him receive an extended look from New England during the remainder of the preseason.

Michalski offers similar positional flexibility.

The 25-year-old signed with the Denver Broncos as an undrafted rookie in 2025 and spent the season on their practice squad. The 6-foot-4, 303-pound lineman played in 59 college games between Oklahoma State and his earlier stops, making 35 starts at center and guard. Neither addition comes with extensive NFL game experience, but both give the Patriots more practice depth at a position that has dealt with uncertainty throughout the summer.

MORE: Mike Vrabel Sends Clear Message To Patriots’ Young Players

Andrew Rupcich Heads To Injured Reserve

Rupcich’s move to injured reserve created one of the openings for New England’s new additions. The Patriots did not announce the nature or severity of the guard’s injury in their official release.

Lalos’ departure came only five days after the Patriots brought him back.

The 28-year-old initially signed with New England on March 16 before being released May 20. He returned Aug. 10, this time listed as a long snapper, but his latest stint ended Saturday. Lalos originally entered the league as an undrafted defensive end with the New York Giants in 2020. He appeared in six games that season, recording five tackles and one fumble recovery. He later spent time with the New Orleans Saints and the Seattle Sea Dragons of the XFL.

The Patriots now will see whether Dalcourt or Michalski can capitalize on the late-camp opportunity. Both players face a difficult path to the initial 53-man roster, but their experience at center and guard could make them candidates for New England’s practice squad.

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