The New England Patriots claimed wide receiver Leonard Hankerson off of waivers from the Atlanta Falcons and it appears that he is already going to step into the lineup.
Per ESPN's Adam Schefter, Hankerson is expected to be active today against the Tennessee Titans. While his role is unknown, we can project his utility on past experience with new wide receivers. It's likely the coaching staff has a few package plays that Hankerson has learned this week, with one or two snaps as the main option. It's also possible that Hankerson could see more time if the game devolves into a blowout.
NFL Network's Ian Rapoport notes that Hankerson requested that the Falcons release him from the injured reserve because the receiver thought that he was healthy enough to play. The Patriots were then able to claim him on waivers. This sounds familiar to running back LeGarrette Blount walking his way off of the Steelers roster last season and back onto the Patriots.
Rapoport also reports that wide receiver Julian Edelman is progressing well in his rehabilitation for his foot injury, and that there is a "good chance he's on the field [week 17], getting acclimated for playoffs."
Schefter states that quarterback Tom Brady (questionable, illness) is expected to start against the Titans.
CSSNE's Mike Giardi notes that center Bryan Stork might not be active this week, and ESPN's Adam Schefter affirms and says that Stork will not play.
The Herald's Jeff Howe reports that safety Devin McCourty will be OUT.