The New England Patriots were able to run the ball with ease on Sunday night versus the Baltimore Ravens and they could be adding another guy back into the rushing mix. Ahead of New England's upcoming matchup with the Houston Texans, Bill Belichick hinted at Sony Michel's possible return from injured reserve, per NFL Network's Mike Giardi.
Belichick asked if Sony Michel will be activated this week off IR. Gives the standard "We'll see" response. #Patriots have a glut at TB with Damien Harris, Rex Burkhead & James White all with specific roles.
— Mike Giardi (@MikeGiardi) November 17, 2020
Michel has been sidelined for the Patriots since Week 3 of the season when New England trounced the Las Vegas Raiders. In the game he suffered the injury in, Michel finished with an impressive 117 yards on nine carries, while also catching two passes for 23 yards.
When Michel went down with his quad injury, the Patriots placed him on injured reserve. As a result, during his absence, New England has leaned on their crowded backfield to replace Michel.
Altogether, Damien Harris, Rex Burkhead, and James White have all seen expanded workloads in the offense. Of the bunch, Harris has looked like the most explosive rushing option.
The second-year back out of Alabama has rushed for over 100 yards in three of his six starts this season. For comparison, Michel has only three 100-yard outings in his last 25 games for the Patriots.
On the other hand, Burkhead and White have been utilized in the passing game more often due to the lack of firepower New England has at the wide receiver position. Burkhead is coming off of a game where he had two receiving touchdowns versus the Ravens.
Belichick failed to say whether or not Michel would definitely return to the offense in Week 11. But if Michel does return, it remains to be seen what his role would be with the Patriots having a loaded running back room.
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