The New England Patriots are giving a fresh batch of hopefuls their shot at NFL glory. While the spotlight shines brightly on first-round pick Caleb Lomu and the team's 2025 draft class, the organization is also rolling out the welcome mat for 17 tryout players at their rookie minicamp, currently underway at Gillette Stadium. With two open roster spots up for grabs, these free agents are battling for a chance to wear the iconic blue and silver.
Some of these names might ring a bell from our Patriots UDFA tracker, but several are new faces looking to make a lasting impression. Let's break down the roster of contenders:
Wide Receivers:
Cade Harris (Air Force) brings a versatile skill set at 5-foot-7, 182 pounds. Over five seasons, he transitioned between wingback and wide receiver, racking up 63 catches for 1,131 yards and five touchdowns, while also adding 681 rushing yards and 10 scores on the ground. His speed and agility could make him a sneaky weapon.
Jha'Quan Jackson (Tulane) is no stranger to the pro game. A sixth-round pick by the Titans in 2024, the 5-foot-9, 188-pound slot receiver and return specialist has also spent time with the Saints and the UFL's St. Louis Battlehawks. In 12 career NFL games, he's averaged 7.7 yards per punt return and 25.8 yards per kickoff—a stat that screams special teams value.
Tight End:
Jeremiah Franklin (Boston College) is a local product looking to stay close to home. The 6-foot-3, 232-pounder started 29 of 47 games for the Eagles, hauling in 93 passes for 1,010 yards and six touchdowns. His reliable hands and college production could earn him a look in New England's tight-end room.
Offensive Line:
Nate Azzopardi (Idaho) is a seasoned veteran of the trenches, having played nearly 3,000 snaps over five years. At 6-foot-2, 301 pounds, he's logged extensive time at left guard, with additional experience at center and right guard. A first-team All-Big Sky selection in 2025, his versatility is a major plus for any offensive line coach.
Defensive Line:
Olasunkonmi Agunloye (Florida International) brings length and power to the interior. The 6-foot-6, 307-pound tackle has taken a winding path through Virginia, Marshall, and FIU, finishing his college career with 4.5 sacks. After serving as a reserve for most of his six-year journey, he's hungry to prove he belongs.
Edge Rusher:
Xavier Holmes (James Madison) packs a punch at 6-foot-2, 252 pounds. After four years and 25 games at Maine, he transferred and is now looking to disrupt offenses at the next level. His motor and physicality make him an intriguing prospect for the Patriots' defensive scheme.
As these 17 players hit the field, every rep counts. Whether they're fighting for a roster spot or just a chance to impress, this minicamp is the ultimate proving ground. Stay tuned—New England's next hidden gem might just be in this group.