FOXBOROUGH, Mass. — As the 2025 NFL regular season looms, the New England Patriots are quietly fortifying their practice squad with strategic additions that could prove pivotal. On Thursday, the team announced the signings of defensive back Corey Ballentine, defensive linemen Cory Durden and Fabien Lovett, and linebacker Mark Robinson to their practice squad. These moves, particularly the addition of Robinson, a former Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker, signal a calculated effort to deepen the roster with versatile, battle-tested talent. To make room, the Patriots released cornerback Brandon Crossley, linebacker Cam Riley, and tight end Gee Scott Jr. from the squad.
Mark Robinson: The Steelers’ Sleeper Steal
The signing of Mark Robinson stands out as a potential game-changer. A three-year NFL veteran, Robinson was a seventh-round pick by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 2022 NFL Draft out of Mississippi. At 5’11” and 235 pounds, he brings a hard-hitting presence with 38 games of experience, including four starts. His stat line includes 34 total tackles, one sack, a forced fumble, and 11 special teams tackles, showcasing his ability to contribute in multiple phases of the game. Robinson’s addition to the practice squad, where he is expected to replace Cam Riley on the scout team, adds a layer of tenacity and versatility that aligns with head coach Jerod Mayo’s vision for a gritty, adaptable defense.
What makes Robinson’s signing a stealth move is its timing and context. Released by the Steelers, he flew under the radar as teams finalized their rosters. The Patriots, however, saw an opportunity to snag a player with proven NFL experience and special teams prowess. His ability to disrupt plays and contribute on coverage units could make him a dark horse for elevation to the active roster if injuries or matchups demand it.
Rounding Out the Squad: Ballentine, Durden, and Lovett
The Patriots didn’t stop with Robinson. They bolstered their defensive backfield and trenches with three other additions:
-
Corey Ballentine, a seven-year veteran defensive back, brings a wealth of experience. Originally a sixth-round pick by the New York Giants in 2019 out of Washburn, the 5’11”, 196-pounder has played in 69 NFL games with 11 starts across stints with the Giants, Jets, Lions, and Packers. His career stats include 67 tackles, one interception, two forced fumbles, and 37 kickoff returns for 876 yards. Ballentine’s versatility as a cornerback and return specialist adds depth and flexibility to New England’s secondary.
-
Cory Durden, a 6’4”, 305-pound defensive lineman, entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent with the Detroit Lions in 2023 out of North Carolina State. After spending time on the Los Angeles Rams’ practice squad and active roster, he joined the Giants’ 53-man roster in December 2024. With 13 tackles in eight games, Durden’s size and experience make him a valuable asset for simulating opposing offensive lines on the scout team.
-
Fabien Lovett, a 6’3”, 316-pound defensive lineman, joined the NFL as an undrafted free agent with the Kansas City Chiefs in 2024 out of Florida State. After spending the 2024 season on the Chiefs’ practice squad, Lovett brings a massive frame and collegiate pedigree from his time at Mississippi State and Florida State. His addition strengthens the Patriots’ ability to develop young talent in the trenches.
Strategic Depth and the International Exemption
The Patriots’ practice squad now stands at 16 players, with the flexibility to carry 17 due to their international pathway exemption for defensive lineman David Olajiga. This exemption allows New England to maintain additional depth without sacrificing roster spots, a critical advantage as they prepare for the grueling 17-game season.
The release of Crossley, Riley, and Scott Jr. reflects the team’s commitment to prioritizing players who can contribute immediately or develop into key roles. While these cuts are tough, they underscore the Patriots’ focus on building a practice squad that can simulate high-level competition and provide emergency depth.
Why This Matters
The Patriots’ latest moves are more than just roster tinkering—they’re a statement of intent. By adding a proven defender like Robinson, alongside versatile veterans like Ballentine and promising linemen like Durden and Lovett, New England is crafting a practice squad capable of pushing the active roster in practice and stepping up when called upon. Robinson, in particular, could be the X-factor nobody saw coming. His physicality and special teams contributions make him a perfect fit for a Patriots team looking to reestablish its defensive identity.
As the regular season kicks off, keep an eye on New England’s practice squad. These under-the-radar signings could prove to be the difference-makers in a tightly contested AFC East.