Pats Pulpit
A return led to a departure in Foxborough.
The New England Patriots announced the release of cornerback Brandon Crossley from the practice squad on Tuesday. A corresponding move loomed after defensive tackle Jeremiah Pharms Jr. cleared waivers and officially re-signed with the 16-man group entering the playoffs.
Crossley, 24, landed at Gillette Stadium as part of the organization’s 2025 undrafted class in May. The 5-foot-11, 186-pound rookie corner saw 79 snaps on defense during the preseason slate. Along the way arrived six tackles, one forced fumble and one pass breakup before he became part of the NFL’s 53-man roster deadline at the end of August.
After going unclaimed, Crossley was briefly retained on the initial New England practice squad. He re-signed amid a series of moves in November.
Crossley totaled 13 starts, 35 tackles and one interception in 2024 at Southern Methodist. The All-ACC honorable mention spent five years with the Mustangs after beginning his collegiate career at Colorado State in 2019. Across 66 appearances in all, he registered 146 tackles, six interceptions and returned a pick as well as a fumble recovery for touchdowns.
The AFC’s No. 2 seed will host the Los Angeles Chargers in the wild-card round on Sunday. Kickoff is set for 8 p.m. ET.
