Tucker Addington has found his way back in the NFL. After signing a contract with the Houston Gamblers to return back to the USFL, Bill Belichick and company decided that due to a Joe Cardona injury an extra Long Snapper was needed.

After working out Addington on the 14th, the Patriots decided on December 16th to sign the Sam Houston State Alum to their practice squad as insurance while recently releasing former Pittsburgh Mauler Hunter Thedford, who recently transitioned from Tight End to Offensive Tackle.

Addington most recently spent a week with the Cowboys due to an injury to pro-bowler Jake McQuaide in October. Addington was signed along with UFL alum and pro-bowler Matt Overton to compete for the Long Snapper position. Overton would win the job leaving Addington to be released on October 11th. Addington earned $11,500 for his one week of service with the Cowboys.

To make from for Addington, former Pittsburgh Mauler Hunter Thedford was released. Thedford spent the last four weeks with the Patriots on their practice squad after gaining thirty pounds to transition from Tight End to Offensive Tackle. Thedford was a blocking Tight End at SMU/Utah who had more receptions in the USFL (13) then he had during his college career (5). The Maulers have sent 9 players to the NFL since the conclusion of the USFL season.

While it’s unclear if Addington is being used as an insurance piece or actually could see the field this week for the Patriots. With current Long Snapper Joe Cardona dealing with an ankle injury it’s very possible Addington could be the 11th USFL alum to play in an NFL game this year. While it’s sad for Gamblers fans to see Addington leave again, it’s clear he’s caught the eye of NFL teams. Currently the USFL to NFL contract opportunities remain at 56, with 21 players on NFL pay rolls.