The New England Patriots got a key piece back on the field Thursday, and just in time. Linebacker Robert Spillane, who sat out Wednesday with an ankle injury, returned to practice in a limited capacity - a promising sign as the Patriots prepare for a heavyweight showdown in Super Bowl LX against the high-powered Seattle Seahawks.
Spillane’s return brings some much-needed steadiness to a Patriots defense that’s looking to contain one of the league’s most explosive offenses. His presence, even in a limited role, could be pivotal in helping Mike Vrabel’s squad execute the kind of physical, disciplined game plan they’ll need to slow down Seattle’s attack.
But Spillane isn’t the only name on the Patriots’ injury watch. Linebacker Harold Landry III and multiple offensive tackles remain question marks heading into the weekend, making their availability something to monitor closely.
Still, there was good news on the offensive side: rookie quarterback Drake Maye was a full participant in practice, putting to rest any lingering concern about a shoulder issue. For a team that will need its young signal-caller to play with poise and precision under the brightest lights, Maye’s clean bill of health is a major relief.
Vrabel and his staff are also fine-tuning the roster ahead of Sunday’s title game. As reported by Ian Rapoport, both the Patriots and Seahawks dipped into their practice squads to add some veteran depth. New England has elevated running back D’Ernest Johnson and defensive end Leonard Taylor III to the active roster - two players who bring experience and situational versatility, which could prove valuable in a game where every snap matters.
Seattle made a pair of moves of their own, calling up veteran running back Cam Akers and wide receiver/return specialist Velus Jones Jr. These elevations aren’t just about filling out the roster - they’re about preparing for the chaos that comes with Super Bowl football. Whether it’s a key third-down conversion, a special teams spark, or a late-game substitution, these vets could find themselves in the spotlight.
On the defensive side, though, the Seahawks are facing a late-week concern that could impact their secondary. Rookie nickelback Nick Emmanwori, a breakout contributor this season, suffered a low-ankle sprain late in Wednesday’s practice and was unable to go on Thursday. While Emmanwori remains optimistic about his chances to suit up, his absence from practice raises real questions about his game-day readiness.
If Emmanwori can’t go, it would be a significant blow to Seattle’s nickel-heavy defensive scheme. Head coach Mike Macdonald may need to pivot, possibly leaning on depth options like Ty Okada to help fill the void. That’s not an easy ask against a Patriots offense that’s starting to find its rhythm, especially with Maye looking sharp and healthy.
Both teams are now in the final stretch of preparation, managing injuries, adjusting personnel, and locking in game plans. With seasoned veterans being activated and young stars working through bumps and bruises, the stage is officially set for a high-stakes rematch in Santa Clara. Super Bowl LX is shaping up to be a chess match - and every piece is being positioned for one last, defining move.