The New England Patriots elevated running back D’Ernest Johnson and defensive end Leonard Taylor III to their active roster on Saturday afternoon for Super Bowl LX. ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported this.
Johnson Key Depth Piece for Patriots
Johnson has been a part of the Patriots‘ running back room over the last several months. He was signed to the Patriots’ practice squad in October, and has been elevated multiple times to the active roster for depth. He recorded a total of 14 carries for 25 yards over the course of the season.
One of Johnson’s most memorable outings came against the Miami Dolphins in the season finale. He recorded five carries for 13 yards in that contest, as the Patriots were able to defeat the Dolphins by a 38-10 score.
Johnson began his career in 2019 with the Cleveland Browns, before going to the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2023. He spent two seasons in Jacksonville before signing with the Baltimore Ravens practice squad. He was released on September 24 and found a home with the Arizona Cardinals on September 29. This was his final stop before coming to the Patriots
Taylor proving value for Patriots during playoffs
Taylor has had an active NFL career. The Miami Hurricanes star broke into the league with the New York Jets in 2024, signing as an undrafted free agent. He spent time on the practice squad that year, but did not appear in a regular-season game. He was waived by the Jets in October, and picked up by the Patriots that same month.
The defender made three regular-season appearances with the team, recording eight combined tackles.
Taylor made a key play in the Patriots’ 10-7 victory over the Denver Broncos and the AFC championship game. He tipped the ball on a game-tying field goal attempt by Broncos kicker Will Lutz. This helps preserve the Patriots’ victory, as they were able to defeat the Broncos in snowy conditions in Denver.
Taylor will provide additional support for the Patriots at the edge position. The Patriots have done a solid job of getting to the passer so far over the course of the playoffs, as they have recorded 12 sacks in the playoffs. K’Lavon Chaisson leads the team with three over the course of three games.
These are important moves for the Patriots. There was ample roster movement over the course of the last couple of days, as the Patriots declined to activate running back Terrell Jennings to the roster ahead of Wednesday’s deadline. Both elevations ensure that there is depth at key positions, as the Patriots head into the finale counting on some of their biggest stars.
These moves could make a difference in the game, especially as fatigue sets in during the back half of Sunday’s contest. Rhamondre Stevenson and TreVeyon Henderson have largely carried the load at the position, but Johnson’s elevation could come in handy, especially when it comes to fatigue.
Taylor has already made big plays and big moments for the Patriots this postseason. His elevation gives the Patriots flexibility in a player who is not afraid to shy away in a big moment.
Either way, both of these moves are important for a young team looking to make its mark.
Like Heavy Sports’s content? Be sure to follow us.
This article was originally published on Heavy Sports
The post Patriots Make Notable Practice Squad Moves Before Super Bowl appeared first on Heavy Sports.