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Patriots vs. Dolphins Inactives: Spikes, Talib, Gronkowski Will Play

The New England Patriots have announced their inactives for their week 17 game against the Miami Dolphins.

US PRESSWIRE

The New England Patriots have announced their inactives for their week 17 match-up against the Miami Dolphins:

Markus Zusevics, OL

Alfonzo Dennard, CB

Nate Ebner, S

Jake Bequette, DL

Nick McDonald, OL

Kamar Aiken, WR

Marquice Cole, CB

Initially, the thing that jumps out isn't who's inactive - it's the questionable players that will suit up and give it a go. Among those playing through injury or making a return include linebacker Brandon Spikes, tight end Rob Gronkowski, cornerback Aqib Talib, and defensive end Jermaine Cunningham.

Talib will provide a needed boost to the cornerback corps if he starts - although he appeared hampered in very limited snaps last week. The other starter at corner, Alfonzo Dennard, continues to miss action with a knee injury.

Cunningham returns after missing the last four games while being suspended for violating the league's policy on PED's (adderall). Meanwhile, Gronkowski will play in a limited role after missing the past five games with a broken forearm. Finally, Brandon Spikes also returns at middle linebacker after being injured in week 15 against the 49ers. His return will hopefully provide a boost in run defense.