Rhamondre Stevenson Active For Patriots Vs. Browns; Jonnu Smith Inactive
BOSTON (CBS) -- Rhamondre Stevenson didn't practice all week due to a concussion suffered last Sunday in Carolina. The rookie running back, however, is ready to play Sunday vs. the Browns.
Stevenson is active for New England on Sunday, and figures to be the team's lead running back with Damien Harris sidelined with a concussion. Stevenson also suffered a concussion in last weekend's win over the Carolina Panthers, but cleared protocol Sunday morning.
Stevenson has rushed for 136 yards and a touchdown to go with seven receptions for 97 yards in his five games this season. The backfield Sunday should consist of Stevenson, Brandon Bolden, and J.J. Taylor.
Harris -- along with punt returner Gunner Olszewski, who suffered a concussion while returning a kick -- was downgraded to out for Sunday's game.
The Patriots will also be without tight end Jonnu Smith, who was among the inactive players announced Sunday morning. Second-year tight end Devin Asiasi figures to make his season debut against the Browns.
Patriots inactives. pic.twitter.com/CMo0NuKyul
— New England Patriots (@Patriots) November 14, 2021
New England will have offensive lineman Trent Brown though, who is active for the first time since suffering a calf injury on the team's first series of the season. The Patriots offensive line has been playing much better as of late, but having the big bodied Brown back on the line should help the team as it looks to protect rookie QB Mac Jones from a tough Cleveland pass rush on Sunday.
Cleveland will also be without its top back, as Nick Chubb will miss the game due to COVID. Demetric Felton will also miss the game, making D'Ernest Johnson the starter in the backfield for the Browns.