The Patriots have activated guard Logan Mankins for Sunday’s game against the Browns, releasing cornerback Terrence Wheatley from the 53-man roster and Tyrone McKenzie from the practice squad in response.
Mankins reported to the team earlier this week after holding out for the first seven games of the season over a contract dispute with the Patriots. His addition should help to bolster what has been an at times porous offensive line.
Wheatley and McKenzie share similar stories. Second and third round draft picks respectively, each ran into injury troubles that prevented them from performing up to their potential. Wheatley played in only five regular-season games in 2009 before sitting out all of 2010, while McKenzie never saw action with the team during the season.