Patriots Roster Battles: 5 Up, 5 Down

Kenbrell Thompkins

1. Cornerback

UP: Logan Ryan - The Rutgers rookie looks like a pro out there and will be needed with uncertainty around Dennard's injury and off-the-field problems.

DOWN: Ras-I Dowling - You can't make the club from the tub. Depth issues at CB may be his saving grace.

2. Running Back

UP: LeGarrette Blount - Big dude has run with a purpose all preseason. That 51 yard, rumlin' & stumblin' TD run was a thing of beauty.

DOWN: Brandon Bolden -There are no roster spots for fumbling 3rd stringers; versatility on special teams could work in his favor.

3. Safety

UP: Steve Gregory - He'a a good cover safety who got lots of action matched up alongside Devin McCourty.

DOWN: Adrian Wilson - Slow and on at least one open field tackle (pursuing Reggie Bush); his better days are definitely behind him.

4. Wide Receiver

UP: Kenbrell Thompkins - The undrafted rookie is getting reps with first team offense and putting up the yards. He is the surprise of the camp.

DOWN: Aaron Dobson - He can't get separation and has been passed on depth chart by Thompkins. He won't be cut but has been a bit of a disappointment thus far.

5. Defensive End/Linebacker

UP: Marcus Benard - Journeymen veteran is working his tail off and seeing lots of reps. He looks like he could be primary back-up to Chandler Jones and Rob Ninovich.

DOWN: Jermaine Cunningham - Like Dowling, he can't stay healthy this camp and has been a massive underachiever. This could be the end of the road.