In a surprising roster shakeup, the New England Patriots made a bold move on Monday, releasing former Boston College center Alec Lindstrom from their practice squad to make room for ex-Los Angeles Chargers guard/center Brenden Jaimes. The decision has raised eyebrows, as the team opted to bring in a journeyman lineman over a promising rookie with local ties.
Brenden Jaimes: The New “Machine” in New England
Brenden Jaimes, a 26-year-old offensive lineman, brings a wealth of experience to the Patriots’ practice squad. A fifth-round pick in the 2021 NFL Draft out of Nebraska, Jaimes appeared in 45 games for the Chargers, including three starts during the 2024 season. Known for his versatility and relentless work ethic, Jaimes earned the nickname “Machine” for his consistent performance and durability. After signing with the Tennessee Titans in free agency in April 2025, Jaimes was unexpectedly cut last week, making him available for New England to scoop up.
Jaimes’ ability to play both guard and center offers the Patriots flexibility along the offensive line, a critical need for a team looking to bolster its depth. His experience in high-pressure situations, including his starts for the Chargers, likely made him an attractive addition for a Patriots squad aiming to stabilize its roster.
Alec Lindstrom’s Departure: A Missed Opportunity?
Alec Lindstrom, a 6-foot-3, 300-pound center, was let go to accommodate Jaimes. A standout at Boston College from 2017 to 2021, Lindstrom was a fan favorite in the New England area due to his local roots and gritty playing style. After going undrafted in 2022, Lindstrom spent time with the Dallas Cowboys, Los Angeles Rams, and New York Jets, making his NFL debut last November as a practice-squad call-up for the Jets. Most recently, he played for the Memphis Showboats in the UFL during the 2024 and 2025 springs, showcasing his resilience and determination.
Lindstrom signed with the Patriots’ practice squad just last week, raising hopes that he could carve out a role with his hometown team. However, his release after such a short stint has left many questioning the Patriots’ long-term vision for their offensive line.
Why the Move?
The Patriots’ decision to replace Lindstrom with Jaimes appears to prioritize experience and versatility over potential. While Lindstrom showed promise, his limited NFL game time—compared to Jaimes’ 45 appearances—may have tipped the scales. Jaimes’ proven track record and ability to fill multiple roles on the line likely align with New England’s immediate needs as they navigate a competitive season.
Still, the move is puzzling for some fans, especially given Lindstrom’s connection to the region and his recent momentum in the UFL. The Patriots’ front office seems to be banking on Jaimes’ reliability to provide stability, but the release of a young, developing player like Lindstrom could be seen as a gamble.
What’s Next?
For Jaimes, this opportunity with the Patriots offers a fresh start to prove his worth in a new system. His experience and positional flexibility could see him elevated to the active roster if injuries or performance issues arise. Meanwhile, Lindstrom’s future remains uncertain. Given his perseverance through multiple NFL and UFL stops, it’s likely he’ll land on another practice squad or UFL roster soon.
The Patriots’ latest roster move underscores their willingness to make tough decisions in pursuit of immediate impact. Whether this swap pays off remains to be seen, but for now, New England is betting on the “Machine” from Los Angeles to help solidify their line.