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The Patriots coaches believe these six players helped the team win in week 5.
By Rich Hill
October 16, 2016
This note flew under the radar this week, but the Patriots announced six practice players of the week from the victory over the Browns in week 5. They are OG Chris Barker, RB D.J. Foster, TE AJ Derby, DB Eric Rowe, DL Geneo Grissom, and DB Vinnie Sunseri.
Per usual, these players likely served as key players on the Browns roster for the scout team.
Barker likely served as All Pro guard Joel Bitonio, who DT Malcom Brown handled easily all game.
Foster was likely RB Duke Johnson, who is a big receiving threat out of the back field. Foster also could have served as WR Terrelle Pryor due to his versatility. This is Foster’s 2nd practice player of the week award.
Derby could have been TE Gary Barnidge, the Browns top receiving threat outside of Pryor. This is Derby’s 2nd practice player of the week award.
Rowe could have played like CB Joe Haden, who struggled at times against WR Chris Hogan.
Grissom could have been any number of players on the Browns defensive front as QB Tom Brady was clean in the pocket all day. Grissom has been promoted to the active roster.
Sunseri might have served some value as a Browns special teams player as head coach Bill Belichick highlighted the Patriots special teams play as a reason for victory. This is Sunseri’s 2nd practice player of the week award.
Previous Winners
Week 1: RB D.J. Foster, DB Brandon King, DB Jordan Richards, DB Vinnie Sunseri
Week 2: QB Jacoby Brissett, LB Elandon Roberts, DT Woodrow Hamilton
Week 3: TE AJ Derby
