QB rotation, roster battles highlight preseason finale

For more than half of the Patriots roster, Sunday’s exhibition finale against the Giants is simply one more opportunity to knock off a little rust before the regular season begins.

It appears 47 Patriots have roster spots locked up. That includes defensive back Shaun Wade, who was acquired in a trade with the Ravens this past week. Also count thirdstring quarterback Brian Hoyer, running back J.J. Taylor, and special teams aces Brandon Bolden, Justin Bethel and Cody Davis as locks.

But for the other 33 Patriots, Sunday’s game could be a defining point in their careers: the day they secure a roster spot, the last time they ever wear an NFL uniform or their opportunity to impress one of the other 31 teams.

The Patriots must cut down to 53 by 4 p.m. on Tuesday. But they can also sign 16 players back to the practice squad, so only 11 Patriots out of 80 will be out of a job by next week— in theory.

Here is what to watch for in the exhibition finale:

Quarterback usage: This is the top story, given Mac Jones’s recent surge and Cam Newton’s

COVID-19 protocol mishap. Coach Bill Belichick didn’t punish Newton this past week, allowing him to regain the No. 1 role in practice, but will that hold true for Sunday’s game as well? It would obviously be a huge story if Jones got the start, as it could be a precursor to him starting in Week 1.

Inside track for final roster spots: The Patriots have three tight ends: Jonnu Smith, Hunter Henry, and Devin Asiasi. But given that they are clearly building the offense around the tight ends, and Henry is dealing with a shoulder injury, expect veteran Matt LaCosse to win a spot.