The New England Patriots will receive an in-season offensive boost.
The Patriots are activating wide receiver Brandon LaFell off of the physically unable to perform list. NFL Media’s Ian Rapoport was the first to report the news. LaFell began training camp on PUP because of a foot injury and was kept on the reserve list for the beginning of the season. The Patriots’ Week 7 matchup with the New York Jets is the first game in which he could be activated and play.
LaFell began practicing with the Patriots on Wednesday after spending weeks warming up with the team during the stretching period. He also participated in practice Thursday and Friday.
LaFell had 74 catches for 953 yards with seven touchdowns as the Patriots’ “X” receiver last season after coming to New England as a free agent. LaFell spent the first four years of his career with the Carolina Panthers. He has 241 career receptions for 3,338 yards with 20 touchdowns. He’s also added eight career rushes for 123 yards.
LaFell said Friday he was tired of lifting weights and rehabbing and was ready to get back on the field. LaFell traveled with the Patriots on their road trips to play the Dallas Cowboys and Indianapolis Colts.
Aaron Dobson and Keshawn Martin filled in for LaFell in the “X” receiver role, combining for 15 catches for 196 yards with a touchdown. Wide receiver Julian Edelman leads the team in receiving with 40 receptions for 449 yards with four touchdowns. Tight end Rob Gronkowski has 23 catches for 425 yards with five touchdowns, and running back Dion Lewis has 26 receptions for 256 yards and one score.
LaFell could draw Jets cornerback Darrelle Revis’ attention away from Edelman and Gronkowski on Sunday.
Thumbnail photo via Mark J. Rebilas/USA TODAY Sports Images
