Patriots Eye Significant Offensive Reinforcements for Week 12
The New England Patriots are gearing up for their Week 12 clash against the Cincinnati Bengals, buoyed by the hopeful return of two pivotal offensive players. Both running back Rhamondre Stevenson and wide receiver Kayshon Boutte, who have been sidelined since Week 9, could make their comeback just in time for New England’s postseason push.
Injury Updates on Key Players
According to head coach Mike Vrabel, the Patriots expect Stevenson (toe) and Boutte (hamstring) to rejoin the practice squad as they prepare for their upcoming road game in Cincinnati. The team will reconvene on November 19, and Vrabel expressed optimism about their return.
“I would expect them to be out there [this week], and then again, we’ll see, monitor how that goes,” Vrabel stated during a press briefing at Gillette Stadium. “When you come back, it’s just about the volume and handling what their normal workload would be. Can they perform their roles up to expectations, and can they protect themselves out there?”
Kayshon Boutte’s Impact on the Offense
Boutte’s absence has been felt significantly since he suffered a hamstring injury during New England’s narrow victory over the Atlanta Falcons in Week 9. He exited the game just before halftime and did not play in the following matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Through his first nine games this season, the sixth-round draft pick (187th overall) has emerged as one of quarterback Drake Maye’s most dependable targets, showcasing his ability to make big plays. Before his injury, Boutte had accumulated 23 receptions for 431 yards and five touchdowns. However, he was unable to register any statistics in the game against Atlanta, having only been targeted once before leaving.
The return of the LSU product would not only ease the burden on fellow receivers Stefon Diggs, DeMario Douglas, Mack Hollins, and rookie Kyle Williams but could also present a crucial advantage against a Bengals pass defense that currently ranks near the bottom of the league. Cincinnati’s secondary has struggled, allowing an average of 260.1 passing yards per game and yielding 23 touchdowns through the air.
Rhamondre Stevenson’s Role in the Running Game
While Boutte’s return would bolster the receiving corps, the Patriots are equally eager for Stevenson to return to the backfield. His running ability and versatility are crucial for New England’s offensive scheme. Without him, the team has relied heavily on other options, which has placed additional strain on the offense.
As the Patriots prepare for this critical matchup, the potential reintegration of both Stevenson and Boutte could provide the spark the team needs to enhance their playoff aspirations. Fans and players alike are keenly watching how these developments unfold as the Patriots aim to reclaim their footing in a competitive AFC landscape.
