The Patriots cut down their roster to 53 players yesterday prior to the NFL roster deadline. Here are a few thoughts on the roster the Patriots will enter the regular season with:

1. Patriots opt to keep three quarterbacks: The Patriots opted to keep three quarterbacks which is a little bit of a surprise considering they could use every available roster spot now. Keeping Bailey Zappe is an indication that they like him and didn’t think he would stay on the waiver wire long.

2. Carrying eight offensive lineman: Carrying eight offensive lineman is smart when you consider the struggles this group has had thus far this preseason. The Patriots are going to need as much depth as possible along the offensive line. Carrying the eighth lineman insures the Patriots have enough depth and they can mix and match if they have to.

3. Jonathan Jones is firmly an outside corner for now: Jones entered the league in 2016 and became one of the best slot corners in the NFL. The trio of him with Stephon Gilmore and JC Jackson on the outside was elite. However, Gilmore and Jackson are gone, and the Patriots came into camp with a significant question at outside corner. Jalen Mills will occupy one spot and after making a move outside during training camp, Jones will play the other. Rookie Marcus Jones and veteran Myles Bryant will be the two top slot corner options. Jon Jones has not played outside corner before, but he is a sublime athlete and smart player; the Patriots are banking on him making a smooth transition.

4. Youth movement at linebacker: The Patriots could count on Dont’a Hightower and Kyle Van Noy leading their linebacking corps for years. Both are gone now after looking worn out (especially Hightower) in the playoff loss to Buffalo last season. Raekwon McMillan will play a significant role off the ball and Mack Wilson and Anfernee Jennings both will see time on the field. Jahlani Tavai has repped over Mack Wilson during camp, but in the long run Wilson could overtake that spot. Ja’Whaun Bentley is still there, but has moved around between edge rusher and middle linebacker during camp. The linebackers are undoubtedly more athletic than last season, however they do have an inexperience factor, which could alter how the Patriots call their defense, at least until the newer roles are solidified.

5. Pierre Strong Jr. is the fourth running back: The Patriots released J.J. Taylor and rookie Kevin Harris. This came on the heels of James White’s retirement. Damien Harris and Rhamondre Stevenson will be the top two backs and Ty Montgomery will be the swing back who can have a large role in the passing game. Montgomery was injured against the Raiders in the preseason finale, and it is unclear if he’ll miss time. If he does, Strong will be thrust into the third back role and even if he doesn’t, it is likely Strong will see some rotational time this season depending on health and usage of Harris and Stevenson.