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.