The New England Patriots signed former Wisconsin wide receiver Alex Erickson to its practice squad on Wednesday, per NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero.
The Patriots make to move to address their depth at the position. Rookie pass-catcher Javon Baker reportedly suffered a concussion and second-year wide receiver JaQuae Jackson suffered a leg injury in August. That leaves just Kayshon Boutte, Kendrick Bourne, DeMario Douglas and Ja’Lynn Polk on the Patriots’ wide receiver depth chart. It presents a clear opportunity for Erickson to return to an active roster.
Erickson, who played college football at Wisconsin from 2012-15, last suited up for the Los Angeles Chargers in 2023. He registered 16 receptions for 232 yards and one receiving touchdown in eight games that season.
Erickson previously played five seasons with the Cincinnati Bengals from 2016-20 and one year with the Carolina Panthers in 2021. He appeared in 97 consecutive games during that stretch, reeled in 96 catches and notched 1,141 total receiving yards.
The #Patriots are signing veteran WR Alex Erickson to their practice squad, per source.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) December 18, 2024
At Wisconsin, Erickson enjoyed a successful collegiate career under Gary Andersen and Paul Chryst. The Darlington, Wisconsin native appeared in 40 games over three seasons and finished his career ranked 10th in school history in receiving yards (1,877) and sixth in receptions (141).
He will now look to see the turf alongside budding quarterback Drake Maye for the remainder of the 2024 NFL season.