Former BYU DL Eathyn Manumaleuna signs with the Patriots

Sep 27, 2013; Provo, UT, USA; Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders quarterback Logan Kilgore (10) is tackled by Brigham Young Cougars defensive lineman Eathyn Manumaleuna (55) during the first quarter at Lavell Edwards Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Russ Isabella-USA TODAY Sports

Former BYU defensive lineman, Eathyn Manumaleuna has signed a contract with a new NFL team today. Manumaleuna will be staying in the northeast to play with the New England Patriots, who cut another DL Seali’i Epenesa to make room for Manu.

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Manumaleuna was cut by the New York Giants in June, so now he has an opportunity to make a team as training camps around the league are firing up.

New England is a nice spot for Manumaleuna. The Patriots run a 3-4 defense which is a great fit for Manu; and think of all the great lineman that have played along the Patriot d-line. They have an identity and a system that has had lots of success. Manumaleuna played every position along BYU’s front three in his career in Provo. The way BYU utilizes their defensive ends is very similar to how NFL d-end’s are used. A lot of wear and tear in the trenches.

Ultimately, will Manumaleuna make the team? It’ll be tough. At first glance, I’d still say Manumaleuna is facing an uphill battle to make the final 53-man roster out of training camp. Guys like Dominique Easley and Tommy Kelly are nursing injuries during training camps. Those two will be starters along the line. But the fact that New England made room for Manu speaks to the fact that they see potential in him.

Manumaleuna is the only former BYU player on New England. There is two former Utes along the Patriot d-line in Sealver Siliga (once a BYU commit), and L.T. Tuipulotu.

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