Week 2 Patriots vs Jaguars: Running backs Sony Michel and Rex Burkhead both expected to play today

Going against one of the NFL’s best defenses today, the New England Patriots will need all available hands on deck to defeat Jacksonville Jaguars. This will not quite be the case, as starting right tackle Marcus Cannon has already been declared out yesterday due to a calf injury. However, two other players that entered the weekend listed as “questionable” on the final injury report are reportedly expected to be ready for the game.

According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, both Sony Michel and Rex Burkhead will likely be good to go against the Jaguars:

Patriots’ first-round pick Sony Michel expected to make his NFL debut today, back from a knee injury, per league source.

Patriots’ RB Rex Burkhead (concussion) also likely to play vs. Jaguars, but still needs to clear pre-game warmups without any setbacks.

Michel missed last week’s season opener due to a knee injury he suffered during the Patriots’ training camp practice on August 1. While the first-round rookie returned to practice in limited action in late August, his NFL debut had to wait – until today when it appears that he will finally hit the field. This certainly is a good development for a New England backfield that saw Jeremy Hill go to injured reserve earlier this week.

The same has to be said about Rex Burkhead’s injury status. Although not quite as optimistic-sounding as Michel’s outlook, it seems as if the second-year Patriot will also play against the Jaguars. Burkhead, who was in the concussion protocol earlier this week, may have a limited role but would add much-needed depth to the team’s offensive arsenal.