The Patriots had a good spot on the waiver priority order, and it proved to the difference in acquiring two players last week.

New England was awarded offensive tackle Demontrey Jacobs, guard Zach Thomas, defensive tackle Eric Johnson II and linebacker Curtis Jacobs on waivers last week. The Patriots reportedly had “backup” claims on three other offensive linemen and one defensive lineman if their desired players weren’t available. Jacobs and Johnson were also sought-after players.

According to ESPN’s Mike Reis, the Arizona Cardinals attempted to put a claim on Jacobs and the Cincinnati Bengals put in a claim on Johnson. The Denver Broncos also wanted to sign Jacobs to their practice squad after they waived him. New England was No. 3 on the waiver order due to its 4-13 record last season, so it was able to win out on the waiver claims.

Offensive line and defensive line were the priorities for the Patriots based on their waiver activity, and all eyes will be on those units when New England travels to Cincinnati to take on the Bengals in its season opener Sept. 8.