New England Patriots running backs coach Ivan Fear believes that both Rex Burkhead and Sony Michel can make an impact in week 1. The Patriots will be at home in Gillette Stadium as they take on the Houston Texans in their season opener this year. As the regular season approaches, they have yet to create a concrete hierarchy in their backfield.

The Patriots are could have anywhere between two and four active backs for their game next Sunday. Both Burkhead and Michel have struggled with knee issues, but Fears believes either one could make big plays for the Patriots when they're ready.

From Andrew Callahan of MassLive.com:

“Rex is a hard worker, man. Really, really hard worker,” Fears said Sunday. “So it's no doubt [once he's done] rehabbing, I know that he's going to come out and give you everything he's got. He's going to be ready to go.”

Fears is also optimistic that despite being a week behind Burkhead, the rookie Michel can be able to suit up for the season opener.

“I don't know. My feeling is yes. He seems to be into everything we're doing. He's been on top of all the adjustments and everything. Everything looks good, but it's not out there,” Fears said. “It's not in practice, it's not in the game. So I don't know.”

Burkhead has taken to the practice field three times this week, but the coaching staff seems unsure if he is ready to return to full contact after the slight knee tear he dealt with during camp. On the other hand, Michel has been out a week longer than Burkhead after undergoing a procedure on his knee.

Burkhead looks like a safer bet to feature against the Texans along with James White in the Pats' backfield. But Michel's possible involvement would be a welcome addition for New England, especially with question marks surrounding their receiving corps.