Patriots re-sign Jack Conley to practice squad in swap of rookie guards

Patriots re-sign Jack Conley to practice squad in swap of rookie guards
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As one rookie offensive lineman returned to Foxborough, another headed out.

The New England Patriots announced re-signing of guard Jack Conley to the practice squad on Thursday, as The Draft Network’s Justin Melo reported. Fellow guard Mehki Butler was released by the organization in a corresponding move.

Conley, 24, initially agreed to terms with the Patriots as an undrafted free agent in May. After seeing 76 offensive snaps in the preseason and clearing waivers at the 53-man roster deadline, the Boston College product signed to the practice squad at its formation. He was later released amid a series of moves entering Labor Day weekend.

The 6-foot-7, 333-pound Conley saw the field at right guard, left guard, right tackle and as an eligible tight end while in Chestnut Hill. After redshirting in 2019, his Eagles career went on to span 60 appearances. As a graduate student last fall, Conley started all 12 games and earned an All-ACC honorable mention.

Butler, 24, signed with New England in May after participating in rookie minicamp on a tryout basis. The 6-foot-3, 310-pound undrafted free agent was later waived and retained on the practice squad at the end of August. His rookie preseason included 52 offensive snaps.

After earning NJCAA first-team All-America recognition at Iowa Western Community College in 2020, Butler transferred to Arkansas State. He went on to start started 38 games on the left side of the offensive line for the Red Wolves.

The Miami Dolphins host Sunday’s 1 p.m. ET AFC East kickoff at Hard Rock Stadium.