The New England Patriots received a positive update on two key offensive players ahead of Sunday’s matchup with the Detroit Lions in Munich, Germany. Wide receiver A.J. Brown and running back Rhamondre Stevenson are both expected to play on Nov. 15, despite entering the game with questionable designations.
Brown has been managing ankle and knee injuries, while Stevenson hurt his knee in last week’s loss to the Green Bay Packers. Their expected availability would give quarterback Drake Maye two important options as the Patriots look to improve their 5-4 record. Detroit enters the game at 6-2.
## A.J. Brown Could Return After Missing Two Games
Brown is expected to end a two-game absence. The 29-year-old has played in just three games this season, recording nine catches for 101 yards. An ankle injury first sidelined him, and a subsequent knee flare-up complicated his recovery.
New England acquired Brown from the Philadelphia Eagles this offseason in exchange for a 2028 first-round pick. He returned to practice this week and took part on a limited basis in all three sessions. Head coach Mike Vrabel expressed optimism Friday about the progress of both injured players, saying their chances looked “pretty good” based on the previous day.
Brown could return against a Detroit defense that will be without cornerback DJ Reed, who was ruled out with a hip injury.
## Stevenson’s Availability Bolsters the Patriots’ Backfield
Stevenson’s status appeared less certain earlier in the week after he injured his knee against Green Bay. He missed Wednesday’s practice but returned in a limited capacity on Thursday and Friday.
This season, Stevenson has rushed for 399 yards and two touchdowns on 102 carries. He has also caught 26 passes for 258 yards and two receiving scores.
His expected return is especially significant after New England placed TreVeyon Henderson on injured reserve Saturday. Henderson has been sidelined by an illness and must miss at least four additional games. If Stevenson were unavailable, the Patriots would likely have relied heavily on Corey Kiner and Lan Larison against Detroit.
New England also activated veterans Reggie Gilliam and Greg Van Roten from injured reserve Saturday, adding depth to an offense dealing with several injuries.
Although the update is encouraging, Brown and Stevenson have not officially been cleared to play. Their statuses will be confirmed when the Patriots announce their inactive players before the 9:30 a.m. ET kickoff.
