Patriots Could Get Veteran RB Back vs. Bengals

FOXBOROUGH, MA. — As the New England Patriots prepare for their Week 12 matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals — with or without star quarterback Joe Burrow — they appear ready to welcome back a prominent pair of skill position players to help bolster their offense.

Running back Rhamondre Stevenson (toe) and receiver Kayshon Boutte (hamstring) are currently “in-line” to play at Paycor Stadium in the Queen City this weekend, per Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel.

While he stopped short of officially declaring either player as “active” for this upcoming matchup, he did offer some encouraging news on Stevenson, who has been a limited practice participant throughout the week.

“There wasn’t many restrictions [this week] … He [Stevenson] responded well to the practice. I would say that as long as we don’t have any setbacks that he’d be in-line to play,” Vrabel told reporters at the conclusion Week 12’s final practice session.

Stevenson first appeared on New England’s initial Week 9 injury report, prior to the Pats’ contest against the Atlanta Falcons — one which New England won 24-23 in Foxborough. The Oklahoma product was listed with a toe injury after being absent for practice before he was eventually ruled out for last weekend’s game against Atlanta. has carried the ball 83 times for 279 yards and three touchdowns. 

With the colder temperatures returning to the region, the importance of a strong and deep rushing attack will be vital for the continued success of Maye and the offense. Having Stevenson return against the Bengals may be exactly what the metaphorical doctor ordered. Cincinnati has also struggled in overall run defense, ranking 32nd in the NFL by allowing an average of 166.4 ground yards, and 12 rushing scores.

While speaking with reporters after practice, Stevenson sounded much like a player who intends on suiting up in Week 12.

“Yeah, I’m motivated,” Stevenson said. “Y‘all know injuries, they happen in this game, It’s very unfortunate. But, I’m ready to get back out there with the team.”

Boutte In? Tavai Out.