"New England Patriots With Rhamondre Stevenson out on Sunday, New England added a reinforcement to its backfield. Following an injury to starting running back Rhamondre Stevenson (toe) this week, the Patriots added a veteran running back - D'Ernest Johnson - to the mix on their practice squad. The same week, New England has now elevated Johnson to the 53-man roster, putting him in line to make his Patriots debut on Sunday against the Atlanta Falcons."
"Johnson is a seven-year NFL veteran, giving New England some needed experience ahead of Sunday's matchup. Outside of his presence, the only other running backs on the Patriots roster are 2025 second-round pick TreVeyon Henderson and 2024 undrafted free agent Terrell Jennings. Entering the season, the running back position was as deep as any spot on New England's depth chart, with proven talents Stevenson and Antonio Gibson leading the way and Henderson set to demand snaps as well."
"Henderson appears poised to take the most reps in the Patriots' backfield on Sunday, but Johnson could certainly factor into the equation not only on offense, but on special teams as well. Since Gibson's injury, New England has searched for a replacement kick returner. Vrabel and special teams coordinator have kept Henderson back returning kicks, along with Efton Chism and Kyle Williams in some capacity."
With Rhamondre Stevenson sidelined by a toe injury, New England elevated veteran running back D'Ernest Johnson from the practice squad to the 53-man roster for Sunday's game against Atlanta. Johnson provides seven years of NFL experience and special teams ability, joining 2025 second-round pick TreVeyon Henderson and 2024 undrafted free agent Terrell Jennings as the remaining backs. The Patriots lost Antonio Gibson to a season-ending ACL and now rely on Henderson for most carries, while Johnson could contribute on offense and as a kick return option. Johnson's best season was 2021 with 671 scrimmage yards and three touchdowns. A trade before the deadline remains possible.
Read at Boston.com
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