Patriots elevate linebacker Jahlani Tavai from practice squad for Week 3 against Saints

Jahlani Tavai entered the league in the second round of the 2019 draft.

The New England Patriots have announced the standard elevation of linebacker Jahlani Tavai to the gameday roster for Sunday’s matchup with the New Orleans Saints.

Tavai, 24, joined the Patriots’ practice squad at its formation and is scheduled to revert on Monday.

The 6-foot-2, 250-pound Hawaii product entered the NFL with the Detroit Lions in the second round of the 2019 draft at pick No. 43 overall. Through 31 games and 16 starts for the organization, Tavai recorded 116 tackles to go with two sacks, three forced fumbles and one interception. He played 1,221 snaps on defense and 215 snaps on special teams over that span.

Tavai would be waived by Detroit at the roster deadline in August before reuniting with his former head coach and current senior football advisor Matt Patricia.

New England entered the weekend with a full active roster of 53 and full practice squad of 16.

Sunday’s kickoff at Gillette Stadium is set for 1 p.m. ET.