Patriots Shore up NFL Roster by Gambling on Hard-Luck WR Jalen Reagor

(Photo : Mitchell Leff/Getty Images) PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - Jalen Reagor (#5) of the Minnesota Vikings runs for a first down during the second quarter against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field.

The New England Patriots made a move on Thursday, August 31, adding wide receiver Jalen Reagor to their practice squad after clearing waivers.

This developed not long after the 24-year-old wide receiver was released by the Minnesota Vikings, according to NFL Insider Adam Schefter. The 21st pick of the 2020 NFL Draft had just cleared waivers after spending last season in a Vikings uniform.

The Vikings tried looking for a trade partner for Reagor, but there were no takers, USA Today reported. Following a year where the Texas native struggled, unable to finish routes or catch punts cleanly, it was evident that a parting of ways would follow.

Reagor has struggled to find his niche after entering the league in 2020. He was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in 2020 but was released after two seasons.

So far, the former TCU Horned Frog has recorded 72 receptions for nearly 800 yards and four touchdowns in 45 games.

The Pats will ironically play Reagor's former team in Week 1 at the Gillette Stadium. If he proves himself, Reagor could get the chance to be promoted and play in that game.

Joining New England allows Reagor to inject life into his sagging NFL career. He was on a limited role with the Vikings, having to play behind the likes of Justin Jefferson, Adam Thielen, and K.J. Osborn, the Bleacher Report noted.

The 24-year-old was in a similar situation with the Eagles before getting traded to the Vikings. However, he has potential and could be a receiving option for the Pats, who aim for a better showing after a forgettable 2022 NFL season.

Reagor will have to earn his keep once more. He will have to contend with other receivers in the fold. That list includes DeVante Parker, Kendrick Bourne, and JuJu Smith-Schuster. There is also Demario Douglas, Kayshon Boutte, and the injured Tyquan Thornton that the 24-year-old has to contend with.