The New England Patriots are making some strategic roster moves ahead of Sunday’s divisional clash with the Buffalo Bills - and they’re addressing both sides of the ball in the process.
On Saturday, the team officially signed running back D’Ernest Johnson to the active roster from the practice squad. That move had been expected since Friday, along with the announcement that rookie back Terrell Jennings is heading to injured reserve. Jennings’ absence opens the door for Johnson to step into a more prominent role, and while he’s not a household name, Johnson brings a steady, veteran presence to a backfield that’s been in flux this season.
Johnson has shown flashes of reliability in past stints, and with the Patriots’ offense still searching for rhythm, he could offer some much-needed stability in the run game. Whether he’s spelling the starter or taking on a bigger load, Johnson’s ability to grind out tough yards and contribute in pass protection makes him a valuable plug-in piece for this week’s game plan.
On the defensive side, New England elevated defensive lineman Leonard Taylor III from the practice squad. Taylor, just 23, joined the Patriots' practice squad back in mid-October after starting his NFL journey with the New York Jets as an undrafted rookie in 2024.
He’s already logged time in 16 games, with 27 tackles and 1.5 sacks to his name - not eye-popping numbers, but enough to show he can contribute when called upon. Two of those appearances came earlier this season before he was released and scooped up by New England.
Taylor’s elevation comes at a critical time for the Patriots' defensive front. With Milton Williams ruled out and veterans like Christian Barmore, Harold Landry III, and Khyiris Tonga battling injuries and missing practice in recent weeks, the team needs fresh legs and rotational depth on the interior. Taylor fits that bill - a young, high-motor player who can eat up snaps and provide some push in the trenches.
This isn’t a blockbuster roster shakeup, but it’s a clear sign the Patriots are trying to shore up their depth in key areas ahead of a tough matchup. The Bills bring a physical, downhill rushing attack and a quarterback who’s never shy about taking off, so having extra help up front could be the difference between controlling the line of scrimmage or getting worn down over four quarters.
For a Patriots team still trying to find its footing late in the season, every roster tweak matters - especially when it comes to the war in the trenches.