The New England Patriots have activated left tackle Will Campbell and defensive tackle Milton Williams from injured reserve ahead of their regular-season finale against the Miami Dolphins. Both players are expected to return to the lineup on Sunday at Gillette Stadium, with implications for the team’s playoff run.
To make room for both Campbell and Williams on the 53-man roster, the Patriots waived defensive tackle Jeremiah Pharms Jr., who had recently been promoted from the practice squad. If Pharms clears waivers, he could rejoin the practice squad, allowing his eligibility for postseason elevations to reset. The team also elevated offensive lineman Brenden Jaimes and defensive lineman Leonard Taylor III from the practice squad.
Williams has not played since suffering a high-ankle sprain in Week 11 against the New York Jets. Before his injury, he was among the league’s top defensive tackles in pressure rate and contributed significantly to New England’s run defense. The Patriots’ run defense ranking dropped after Williams’ absence. His return is expected to ease double-team pressure on fellow defensive tackle Christian Barmore.
Earlier this week, Williams commented on his return: “Playing in the NFL, the speed is the same, but in the playoffs, just the margin of error is really, really, really small compared to the regular season,” Williams said. “To get in football shape, you got to go out there and practice and play. I look forward to that.”
Campbell returns after missing time due to a knee injury sustained in Week 12 against Cincinnati. The rookie left tackle participated fully in all three practices leading up to Sunday’s game and ranks second among rookie tackles in pressure rate allowed this season.
The Patriots will be without left guard Jared Wilson due to concussion protocol. The expected starting offensive line includes Campbell at left tackle and Ben Brown at left guard—the first time they have started together since Week 4.
Jaimes and Taylor have each been elevated from the practice squad for a third time this season; their elevation eligibility will reset for postseason games.
On Miami’s side, running back Jeff Wilson Jr. and linebacker Derrick McLendon were elevated from their practice squad as well. This move comes as Dolphins running back De’Von Achane is listed as doubtful with a shoulder injury; Achane leads all NFL rushers in yards per carry and explosive runs this season.
Sunday’s matchup carries significant playoff implications for New England. A win secures a top-two seed in the AFC playoffs with an opportunity for a No. 1 seed if Denver loses; a loss could drop them as low as No. 3 depending on other results.
The Patriots host Miami at 4:25 p.m. ET on Sunday.
