Patriots inactive list contains one big surprise

We always look at the final inactive list to see if there are any big surprises.

This week, there is.

Isaac Sopoaga, whom the Patriots traded for at the deadline, is a healthy scratch this week.

This news makes it sound unlikely that Sopoaga will be with the team next year. The trade might've been scrutinized if the Pats gave up more than a 5th round pick, but there was really no risk to this one.

It was a trade that the team had to try and make as they were pretty desperate on that defensive line at the time.

Patriots inactives: Nate Solder, D.J. Williams, Dane Fletcher, Josh Boyce, Kenbrell Thompkins, Isaac Sopoaga & Jake Bequette.
— New England Patriots (@Patriots) December 22, 2013

Additionally, linebacker Dane Fletcher does not make the final cut. He was being looked at by Dr. Thomas Gill before the game.

Aaron Dobson will be active for the first time since Week 12.