The Patriots have a big Week 18 game against the Dolphins on Sunday afternoon, and they will need to take on their division foe without one of their star linebackers.
New England downgraded Dont'a Hightower to out when it takes on Miami at Hard Rock Stadium for its regular-season finale. A knee injury limited Hightower in practice this week.
The Patriots already clinched a playoff berth, but will have their AFC seeding determined by a win or loss.
New England also will be without safety Kyle Dugger.
Kickoff for Patriots-Dolphins is set for 4:25 p.m. ET.
