The New England Patriots signed offensive lineman Lecitus Smith from the Green Bay Packers practice squad on Tuesday.
Smith signed with the Packers on May 6, spent the entirety of training camp with the team and returned to the starting practice squad following recent cuts.
Smith, who was selected in the sixth round of the 2022 draft by the Arizona Cardinals, is getting a chance on the Patriots’ 53-man roster. NFL teams can sign players from practice to 53-man rosters.
Smith played 123 preseason snaps for the Packers. On the field, he played 82 snaps at left or right guard and 41 at center. Pro Football Focus showed he allowed four pressures, including a sack. The Packers liked his versatility on the interior of the offensive line.
Smith played in 10 games and started twice for the Cardinals in 2022.
This is the second time this season that a player has been signed off the Packers’ practice squad. Rookie tight end Messiah Swinson signed with the Carolina Panthers before Week 1, but returned to Green Bay after being released.
