Patriots Make Bold Move with D’Ernest Johnson Activation
The New England Patriots have once again shuffled their running back lineup as they prepare for a critical Week 15 matchup against the Buffalo Bills. In a noteworthy development, head coach Mike Vrabel confirmed in his final media chat of the week that D’Ernest Johnson has been activated from the practice squad, making him the team’s third running back for the game.
“D’Ernest will probably get to the game and help us,” Vrabel stated, underscoring the urgency of the situation. “We’ll have to figure some things out now, this afternoon or tomorrow.”
Injury Impacts on the Roster
This strategic move comes on the heels of a setback for second-year player Terrell Jennings, who suffered a concussion during the Patriots’ Week 13 victory over the New York Giants. Jennings has since missed the first two practices of the week, raising concerns about his availability moving forward. Given the nature of his injury, the Patriots may consider placing him on injured reserve if recovery doesn’t progress in the coming weeks.
Johnson’s Experience and Role
With the addition of Johnson, the Patriots gain a seasoned veteran who can provide depth in both rushing and pass protection. Though his contributions have been modest this season—totaling just seven yards on four carries over three games—his versatility is invaluable. Johnson has also seen action on special teams, logging nine snaps during his brief tenure with the team.
A Diverse Backfield Strategy
With Johnson now on the roster, the Patriots have the opportunity to diversify their offensive strategy. Rhamondre Stevenson, who scored twice in the previous encounter against the Bills, is expected to shoulder the bulk of the carries. Meanwhile, rookie TreVeyon Henderson continues to carve out a role for himself, increasing his touches and likely contributing as a pass catcher.
While Johnson may not see significant carries during the game, his activation allows the Patriots the flexibility they need. By not limiting themselves to just two running backs, they can better manage game situations across various phases, making this move a strategic fit for Vrabel’s squad.
