The Patriots made two moves on Thursday. The first move was to place linebacker Raekwon McMillan on I.R after he partially torn an Achilles tendon. It yet another injury for the talented veteran who just cannot seem to stay healthy.

As a result, McMillan will miss the entire season. This is the second time in the last three seasons that an injury has forced McMillan to miss the entire season.

Players can be designated to return from IR during the season but an offseason move to IR means the only way a player can play again is if he is released with an injury settlement and ends up signing elsewhere.

The Patriots lose a key reserve with McMillan’s injury. Here is what their depth chart looks like now at linebacker.

Ja’Whaun Bentley

Jahlani Tavai

Mack Wilson Sr.

Chris Board

Marte Mapu (SS/LB)

Calvin Munson

Olakunle Fatukasi

Terez Hall

Jourdan Heilig (SS/LB)

With McMillan going to I.R, the Patriots used the open roster spot to sign former Falcons tight end and Harvard alum Anthony Firkser.

Firkser has played for the Jets, Chiefs, Titans and Falcons in his career. He has caught 115 passes for 1,207 yards and 5 touchdowns in his career.

At 6-2, 246 Firkser is more of a third tight end or move tight end. He would be a nice complement to Hunter Henry and Mike Gesicki in 13 personnel formations. He can also lead block on certain runs as a move tight end or even as a fullback.

Firkser also plays special teams so there is a good possibility that he makes this roster.

Firkser had a stellar career at Harvard finishing 12th all-time in school history in receptions, ninth all-time in receiving yards, and sixth all-time in touchdown receptions. He graduated in 2017 with a degree in applied mathematics. He wants to be an actuary when his football career is over.

Bill Belichick loves high I.Q players. He just added one of the smartest guys in the league to the Patriots roster.