The New England Patriots are gearing up for their upcoming game against the Miami Dolphins with key players returning to action. Wide receiver Kendrick Bourne and safety Marte Mapu have been activated off the PUP list and injured reserve, respectively. The Patriots also added defensive tackle Jaquelin Roy to the roster and elevated center Bryan Hudson and outside linebacker Ochaun Mathis from the practice squad, bringing the roster to full capacity at 53 players.
However, safety Jabrill Peppers has been ruled out with a shoulder injury, while safety Kyle Dugger is questionable with an ankle issue. Linebacker Sione Takitaki remains on the PUP list but has started his 21-day activation window.
Bourne is expected to replace wide receiver K.J. Osborn, who is questionable with a shoulder injury. Mapu joins a group of available safeties including Jaylinn Hawkins, Dell Pettus, and Brenden Schooler. Roy adds depth to the defensive tackle position along with other players like Davon Godchaux and Daniel Ekuale.
Hudson will serve as a backup center to Nick Leverett due to David Andrews being on injured reserve, while Mathis will provide support at the edge defender position.
Overall, the Patriots are looking to improve both their offense and defense with the return of these key players and additions to the roster ahead of their matchup with the Dolphins.
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