Will Grier Signs with Patriots, Joins Active Roster

It took a couple weeks, but Will Grier is back on an NFL active roster. The former Mountaineer has signed with the Patriots, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.

Grier joins New England as a backup for Mac Jones after spending time as a member of the Bengals practice squad to start the season. Despite another solid preseason, Grier was released by the Cowboys after Dallas traded for Trey Lance.

WVU product QB Will Grier, who had his Cowboys tenure come to an end after the preseason, is signing with the Patriots, per @AdamSchefter.

— Mike J. Asti (@MikeAsti11) September 21, 2023

The Cowboys actually told Grier he would not be on the team moving forward the day before he took the field to start Dallas’ final preseason game. He put up one the best performances of his professional career in his Cowboys farewell, completing 29 out of 35 passes for 305 yards with two touchdown passes while playing the entire game. He also ran for 53 yards and scored two more touchdowns with his legs.

Dallas made the decision to part ways with Grier once owner Jerry Jones pulled the trigger on a trade for Lance. The Cowboys couldn’t resist the chance to add a former first round pick to their quarterback room, even if he’s likely going to be a project. This made Grier the odd man out behind starter Dak Prescott and backup Cooper Rush.

Grier opened up with Sports Illustrated’s Cowboys FanNation site about a tough 72 hours that taught forced him to endure a series of emotions.

Will Grier Remains Confident, Staying Motivated After Tough Exit from Cowboys

The 28-year-old admitted he was extra motivated to prove he belongs in the NFL on Saturday when he started a game that was going to result in him being released no matter how it played out.

“I was motivated, but it was a tough situation,” Grier said. “I just relied on the fact that I know how to play football and I’m good at it, so that’s what I did. At the end of the day, it’s a numbers thing and it’s part of the job I signed up for. I’ve been through harder things and I’ll rebound and be just fine.”