Meet the Newest New England Patriot: La’Michael Pettway

The New England Patriots had multiple openings on their practice squad, following a recent barrage of departures and promotions. New England has filled one of those spots. Tight end La’Michael Pettway is the newest member of the Patriots practice squad.

Pettway’s college football career began with the Arkansas Razorbacks (2015-2018). He transferred to Iowa State for the 2019 season. He enjoyed his best season with the Cyclones. In his lone season with ISU he caught 55 passes for 676 yards and six touchdowns, all personal bests. He received honorable mention All-Big 12 for his efforts. Pettway was not selected in the 2020 NFL Draft.

The 26-year old has made several stops since going undrafted. He was part of the 2021 NFL Spring League. New England has signed two Spring League alumni this season. Return specialist Matthew Sexton had a brief stay with the Patriots practice squad himself four weeks ago.

La’Michael Pettway went on to play the past two seasons in the USFL. He was with the Michigan Panthers in 2022 before joining the Birmingham Stallions in 2023. Pettway helped the Stallion become 2023 USFL Championship. He caught three passes for 23 yards in the title game.

This past offseason, the 6-foot-2, 233 pound Pettway signed with the Colts. Indianapolis waived him after eight days with an injury designation. The nature of the injury was not disclosed. Pettway auditioned for the Patriots on Nov. 27, along with four others. The tryout did not lead to any immediate signings.

The New England Patriots were without starting tight end Hunter Henry on Sunday in Denver. His timetable for a return is unknown. That left Mike Gesicki, Pharaoh Brown, and practice squad player Matt Sokol as available tight ends with the organization. La’Michael Pettway now joins them.