The Patriots will be without their starting running back against the Browns, and they may be down multiple backs. New England ruled out Damien Harris for Week 10.
Harris is in the Patriots’ concussion protocol after leaving last week’s game. He did not practice this week. While entering the weekend with a questionable designation, Harris will be shelved for at least a game because of his head injury.
This will mean both the run-oriented Patriots and Browns will be without their starting backs Sunday. The Pats also have listed Rhamondre Stevenson as questionable due to his status in the protocol. The rookie also suffered a concussion against the Panthers and did not practice this week, but the Pats remain hopeful.
Sunday’s game will nevertheless feature depleted backfields. The Browns have seen COVID-19 reduce their backfield to ex-Alliance of American Football performer D’Ernest Johnson. Chubb, Demetric Felton and John Kelly tested positive for the coronavirus. Kareem Hunt remains without a firm return timetable from his calf injury, but the standout backup might be down until December.
As for the Patriots, they have the likes of Brandon Bolden and J.J. Taylor healthy. Harris, however, holds a 411-yard lead on all other Pats backs this season. The third-year ball-carrier has gained 547 yards and rushed for seven touchdowns in a breakthrough season.
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