New England Patriots center James Ferentz hasn't appeared in a game yet this season after being cut at the end of training camp and signing with the practice squad.
However, the 34-year-old veteran has a unique role to play for the Pats this season.
"He's been inactive for all the games, so his role on the sideline is to help us with his experience, interaction with his teammates and the experience that he has as a player," coach Bill Belichick said. "And, knowing our system, you know, things that happen on the field that players see sometimes that coaches don't see."
Ferentz has bounced from the Pats' active roster to the practice squad numerous times since he signed with the team in 2017 and is one of just a handful of players still on the roster from New England's last Super Bowl win five years ago.
So while Ferentz doesn't have a clear path towards playing anytime soon, the fact that he still has a role on the team should speak volumes towards his character and his leadership abilities that Belichick alluded to.
It remains to be seen what will come of Ferentz's future as the Patriots gear towards a rebuild with a 1-5 start, but New England is still relying on his veteran leadership to push the Pats in the right direction.
Ferentz will once again be on the sidelines when the Patriots host the visiting Buffalo Bills on Sunday. Kickoff is scheduled for 1 p.m. at Gillette Stadium.
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