What happened: New England signed cornerback Kindle Vildor and safety Mike Brown to its practice squad. The moves place both defensive backs in the club's initial 12-player practice-squad group.

Why it matters: The additions preserve secondary depth as New England prepares for its 2026 season opener. Vildor previously produced a preseason interception for the Patriots in August.

What to watch: Practice-squad players can be elevated for game days as roster needs develop.