Patriots add Xavier Newman-Johnson to the practice squad after Jets release

The Patriots made a targeted change to their offensive-line depth Thursday, signing Xavier Newman-Johnson to the practice squad and releasing rookie Jacob Rizy.

Newman-Johnson, 27, spent the start of the season on the Jets' practice squad after previous time on Tennessee's practice squad and roster. New England's announcement says he has played 25 NFL games with four starts, working at left guard, right guard and center. That range gives the Patriots another interior option while they prepare to host Pittsburgh on Sunday.

Rizy joined New England as an undrafted rookie out of Florida State after three seasons at Harvard. He had returned to the practice squad after being released at the end of training camp. The move is a depth adjustment rather than a game-day activation, but it gives the Patriots a more experienced emergency profile inside.

The timing matters because New England is still managing a Thursday injury report that lists tackle Dametrious Crownover and cornerback Carlton Davis III as nonparticipants. Newman-Johnson's ability to cover three interior spots can help the club preserve flexibility as the week closes.