The Patriots signed quarterback Will Grier off the Bengals’ apply squad three days earlier than their win final weekend over the Jets.
But they seemingly did so with this Sunday’s sport in thoughts.
Grier, who spent a lot of the previous two seasons in Dallas, has his ex-Cowboy teammates and coaches on edge this week. Dallas offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer instructed reporters Tuesday his offense would change its indicators and calls earlier than internet hosting the Patriots on Sunday as a result of he expects Grier to place his inside info to good use.
“Will knows where a lot of the bones are buried,” Schottenheimer stated earlier than later including: “I’ll be great to see (Grier), but I’m sure he’s definitely being interrogated and probably spending a lot of late nights with their defensive coaching staff.”
Hours later Tuesday, Pats offensive coordinator Bill O’Brien downplayed the influence Grier’s might have on Sunday.
“I’ve never thought in my years in the league that any of that was a real overriding factor in a win or a loss,” O’Brien stated. “It comes right down to the gamers on the sphere, and the coaches placing the gamers in the suitable positions to make performs and that’s what we’re attempting to do.
“I don’t think we’re trying to pull a light over anybody and, you know, ‘tell me what you did on July 20 of 2023.’ We’re not doing that. We’re not interrogating anybody.”
Grier spent most of his Dallas tenure on the apply squad. He was elevated for a handful of Cowboys video games in 2021 and 2022, however by no means took a snap. He entered the league as a third-round decide of the Panthers in 2019.
Grier is the seventh quarterback the Pats have rostered within the final month, together with Mac Jones and Bailey Zappe who stay on the energetic roster.
The Pats might additionally attempt to pump working again Ezekiel Elliott for info. Elliott spent the primary seven years of his profession with the Cowboys, making one All-Pro staff and three Pro Bowls. Dallas launched him final March, 5 months earlier than the Patriots signed him as a free agent this summer time.
After dashing for a season-high 80 yards versus the Jets, Elliott addressed his launch and upcoming return to Dallas The 28-year-old stated he was excited to play once more in Cowboys Stadium and see a number of acquainted faces.
“I was definitely disappointed, but everything happens for a reason. God has his plan for us. I’m excited for this next chapter in my life,” Elliott stated earlier than later including: “No one wants to leave the team they’re with. But more importantly, I’m very happy with where I’m at.”
