The New England Patriots grabbed a 27-20 win in the season opener over the Houston Texans and in Week 2 are looking to once again get the edge against another formidable opponent in the Jacksonville Jaguars.

This has kept the availability of running back Rex Burkhead as something to keep an eye as he was limited in practice on Thursday morning, according to Jim McBride of The Boston Globe.

The Patriots are counting on Burkhead to lead their backfield as the primary option behind his versatility as a runner and receiver. He was an effective factor with 18 carries for 64 rushing yards while hauling in a reception for five receiving yards. Burkhead had shown no limitation in his play on the field despite currently dealing with a slight tear in his knee that has voiced that he will have to deal with through the entire season.

New England may be merely operating in a manner of managing the situation as the team wants to continue to maximize his contributions on the field. The team isn't asking for him to be their workhorse running back, but rather lead the charge with his playmaking ability. He had shown that in the 10 games that he played last year as he rushed for 264 yards with five touchdowns while hauling in 30 catches on 36 targets for 254 receiving yards and three touchdowns. He has proven to be a reliable talent that the Patriots are looking to lean on over the course of the season.

However, if he is forced to miss practice later in the week, it should be telling of his availability come Sunday afternoon. The team could turn to James White to handle the starting duties if Burkhead were to be forced to be sidelined to his knee injury. For the time being, it is a simple management of the situation.