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Patriots fill open roster spot, elevate two from practice squad
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- Patriots fill open roster spot, elevate two from practice squad
The Patriots activated cornerback Alex Austin to the 53 man roster, while also elevating a pair from the practice squad for Sunday's AFC Divisional Round showdown with the Houston Texans .
Defensive tackle Leonard Taylor III, who was promoted for last week's Wild Card round game with the Los Angeles Chargers , once again gets the call.
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This marks the 5th time Taylor has been elevated since being signed to the practice squad in October. He's been used as a rotational player on the interior of the line.
Running back D'Ernest Johnson, meanwhile, has had a bit of a wild ride of late. He was released from the Patriots 53-man roster earlier in the week, re-signing with the practice squad, and now finds himself with a chance to play against the Texans.
Along with serving as the third back behind Rhamondre Stevenson and TreVeyon Henderson , Johnson has been used as a kick returner.
Austin was placed on IR Nov. 25. He injuring his wrist in the Patriots Week 12 win over Cincinnati , practiced the last two weeks, finally being activated and taking the open spot created by Johnson's release.
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Austin adds depth in the secondary, and prior to his injury, was a regular contributor on special teams.
The Patriots should also see CB Christian Gonzalez, who was cleared from concussion protocol, and DT Khyiris Tonga , who's been out since Week 16 with a foot injury, return to action.
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