Story by
Mike Vrabel Reveals Why Patriots Targeted Two New Additions
- Story by
- Mike Vrabel Reveals Why Patriots Targeted Two New Additions
Mike Vrabel Reveals Why Patriots Targeted Two New Additions originally appeared on NESN . Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here .
Mike Vrabel did not need a lengthy introduction to one of the New England Patriots ' newest players. The Patriots claimed tight end Cameron Latu and linebacker Darius Muasau off waivers Monday, adding two players who could immediately help on special teams. During his Tuesday press conference , Vrabel explained what attracted New England to both additions.
Advertisement
Vrabel already knew Latu from their time together with the Cleveland Browns . The Patriots coach spent the 2024 season as a coaching and personnel consultant in Cleveland, while Latu was briefly part of the Browns' practice squad. Vrabel noted that Latu has excelled on special teams and will factor into the competition at tight end.
The familiarity probably helped, but Latu's versatility appears to be the real selling point. The 26-year-old was selected by the San Francisco 49ers in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft. He appeared in 15 games for the Philadelphia Eagles last season, playing 257 special-teams snaps compared to 102 offensive snaps. Latu finished with 11 special-teams tackles and contributed to a blocked punt.
That is precisely the sort of supporting work that can keep a reserve player active on game day.
Darius Muasau Brings Experience And Flexibility
Vrabel also pointed to Muasau's ability to handle multiple responsibilities.
The coach said the former New York Giants linebacker "showed the ability to play both spots inside."
Advertisement
Muasau has considerably more defensive experience than the typical post-cutdown waiver addition. The 25-year-old appeared in 27 games and made 18 starts over two seasons with New York, compiling 106 tackles, one sack and one interception.
He also played 341 special-teams snaps.
MORE: Patriots Name Six Captains With Two Notable New Additions
That combination could allow Muasau to contribute immediately while providing insurance behind New England's starting linebackers. His arrival became even more important after Jacobs was placed on injured reserve and Britt was released.
Latu enters a tight end room led by Hunter Henry , with Eli Raridon and undrafted rookie Tanner Arkin also on the roster. Muasau joins a linebacker group that needed another experienced option.
Advertisement
Neither waiver claim will generate the excitement of the A.J. Brown trade. That is fine. September football often is decided by players who cover punts, fill backup roles and prevent one injury from becoming a weekly crisis.
Vrabel knew what he wanted, and the Patriots found two players capable of doing the less glamorous jobs.
