HOUSTON -- The New England Patriots filled the open spot on their 53-man roster by promoting linebacker Eric Martin from the practice squad, a move made with special-teams considerations in mind.
Martin had been released from the Patriots' 53-man roster on Nov. 27 after playing in two games. He had a notable block on Danny Amendola's 82-yard punt return against the New York Giants on Nov. 15. He also played on the punt protection unit, which had a notable breakdown last week on an Eagles block late in the second quarter.
Martin, 24, had made the Patriots' opening roster out of training camp and played on special teams in the season-opening win over the Steelers before he was released two days later. He returned on the practice squad four days later.
The Patriots didn't have to release a player to make room for the 6-foot-2, 250-pound Martin because they had waived running back Trey Williams on Thursday. After Williams cleared waivers, he signed with the Patriots' practice squad Saturday.
