Patriots Defense at Full Strength for Divisional Clash Against Texans
FOXBORO - The Patriots are heading into Sunday’s divisional-round showdown with the Texans at full defensive strength - and that’s no small thing in January football.
The big news? Outside linebacker Harold Landry is active after sitting out Friday’s practice with a knee issue.
He was listed as questionable, but he’s good to go, giving New England one of its most disruptive edge players back just in time. Landry’s presence off the edge will be key against a Texans offense that’s shown it can move the ball when given time.
Joining him in the return-to-action column is defensive tackle Khyiris Tonga, who’s back from a foot injury. Tonga’s return helps solidify the interior rotation, which has already gotten a boost in recent weeks with the returns of Milton Williams and linebacker Robert Spillane. That’s a lot of muscle and experience coming back just in time for the most important game of the season.
Here’s a look at the Patriots’ inactives for Sunday:
- QB Tommy DeVito (emergency third QB)
- TE CJ Dippre
- OT Marcus Bryant
- OL Caedan Wallace
- DT Eric Gregory
- OLB Bradyn Swinson
- CB Kobee Minor
A quick note on DeVito: as the emergency third quarterback, he can only enter the game if both active QBs go down with injuries - and he’d have to come out as soon as either of them is cleared to return.
Tight End Room and Offensive Line Set
With CJ Dippre inactive, the Patriots will lean on veterans Hunter Henry and Austin Hooper at tight end, with fullback Jack Westover also available to fill in where needed. That trio offers a solid mix of blocking and pass-catching ability - especially important in a playoff setting where versatility matters.
Up front, the Patriots are dressing eight offensive linemen from a group of 10 on the 53-man roster. Expect to see:
- LT Will Campbell
- LG Jared Wilson
- C Garrett Bradbury
- RG Mike Onwenu
- RT Morgan Moses
They’ll be backed up by interior swingman Ben Brown and tackles Thayer Munford and Vederian Lowe. That’s a deep, experienced group - and they’ll have their hands full keeping the Texans’ pass rush in check.
Defensive Front Looks Locked In
With Tonga back and Eric Gregory inactive, Leonard Taylor III - elevated from the practice squad - will slot into Gregory’s spot. Expect Milton Williams and Christian Barmore to get the starting nods on the interior, with Cory Durden providing rotational depth. That’s a stout group that can collapse the pocket and plug running lanes.
On the edge, Landry’s activation means rookie Bradyn Swinson is the odd man out. The Patriots will roll with a rotation of Landry, K’Lavon Chaisson, Anfernee Jennings, and Elijah Ponder. That’s a lot of speed and power off the edge - a group that can get after the quarterback and set the edge in the run game.
Secondary and Backfield Depth Updates
Cornerback Alex Austin, fresh off injured reserve, is active and likely to take over Kobee Minor’s duties on special teams. That’s a solid trade-off, especially if Austin is close to full speed. His return adds depth to a secondary that’ll need to be sharp against a Texans passing attack that can stretch the field.
In the backfield, running back D’Ernest Johnson has been elevated from the practice squad and will back up Rhamondre Stevenson and TreVeyon Henderson. Johnson’s a reliable option who can handle carries in a pinch and contribute on special teams if needed.
Bottom Line
The Patriots are as healthy as they’ve been in weeks, and they’re getting key reinforcements at exactly the right time. With the defense back at full strength and solid depth across the board, New England is set up well for a physical, playoff-style battle against Houston.