FOXBORO — The Patriots were low on linebackers when they took the field Wednesday for their first practice of the week.
So, it makes sense that they made it a priority to bolster their depth at linebacker by signing Chad Muma off the Colts’ practice squad on Tuesday.
Muma, a Jaguars third-round pick out of Wyoming in the 2022 NFL Draft, has played 55 games, starting seven, with the Jags and Colts during his four-year career.
“He’s played in this league. Again, we get down to this time of the year where you’ve got to find some guys that have played in games and that you could use in fourth down or the kicking game,” head coach Mike Vrabel said Wednesday of Muma. “Good speed, good ability to process and understand what’s going on. So, I think his experience helps, and obviously what he can do and how quickly he can learn.”
Starting linebackers Robert Spillane (foot) and Christian Elliss (unknown) both weren’t spotted during the beginning of practice. Spillane was wearing a walking boot on his left foot in the locker room after being active only in an emergency role Sunday against the Bills. Spillane didn’t wind up taking the field in the 35-31 loss.
The Patriots also signed former Raiders linebacker Amari Gainer to their practice squad Wednesday. Linebackers Jack Gibbens, Jahlani Tavai and Marte Mapu fill out the Patriots’ depth on the 53-man roster, while Otis Reese is another option on the practice squad. The Patriots also have linebacker Darius Harris on practice squad injured reserve.