Home / Sports / Injury-Thinned Patriots Sign Veteran TE Shane Zylstra
Injury-Thinned Patriots Sign Veteran TE Shane Zylstra
3 Sep
Summary
- Patriots signed veteran tight end Shane Zylstra to the practice squad.
- Zylstra brings 35 games of NFL experience, adding depth to a thin position.
- The team opens its season against the Seattle Seahawks next Wednesday.
The New England Patriots have signed veteran tight end Shane Zylstra to their practice squad, adding depth to a position group impacted by offseason injuries. Zylstra, who has 35 games of NFL experience, was signed on Wednesday. This move comes as the Patriots prepare for their season opener.
New England's season kicks off one week from Wednesday with a road game against the Seattle Seahawks. This matchup is a rematch of the previous Super Bowl. The tight end position has seen injuries, notably Julian Hill's season-ending injury, prompting the team to seek additional players.
Zylstra brings a profile suited for blocking and special teams. He spent four seasons with the Detroit Lions, recording 18 receptions for 136 yards and four touchdowns in 35 games. He also faced injury setbacks, including missing the entire 2023 season and a Week 2 injury in 2025.
The Patriots' current tight end room includes Hunter Henry, third-round rookie Eli Raridon, undrafted rookie Tanner Arkin, and Cameron Latu. Zylstra's addition provides another option for blocking and special teams situations, with practice squad players eligible for three game-day elevations per season.
