FOXBOROUGH, Mass. — In a season where every snap counts, the New England Patriots received a massive boost on Wednesday as their star running back, Rhamondre Stevenson, returned to the practice field ahead of their pivotal Week 12 showdown with the Cincinnati Bengals. With the colder New England weather setting in and the team’s offense hungry for momentum, Stevenson’s limited participation signals a timely ignition for a unit that’s been navigating injuries and looking to exploit Cincinnati’s porous run defense.
The Patriots, sitting at a critical juncture in the 2025 NFL season, released their first injury report of the week, and while it listed 11 players in total, the headline was clear: full attendance at practice, with no players sidelined entirely. Stevenson, the explosive Oklahoma product who’s been the heartbeat of New England’s ground game, had been nursing a toe injury that first surfaced before Week 9. He missed the team’s thrilling 24-23 win over the Atlanta Falcons and was ruled out for the subsequent matchup, leaving a void in the backfield.
But on this crisp November afternoon—just three days before the November 23 clash at Paycor Stadium—Stevenson was back in action, albeit in a limited capacity. Through the first part of the season, he’s carried the ball 83 times for 279 yards and three touchdowns, showcasing the electric burst and vision that make him indispensable. His return couldn’t come at a better time, as the Bengals rank dead last in the NFL against the run, surrendering an average of 166.4 yards per game and 12 rushing touchdowns to opponents.
Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel, ever the pragmatist, tempered expectations but couldn’t hide the optimism. “They’ll all work today, we’ll see how they respond after today and kind of keep moving from there,” Vrabel told reporters before practice. “They haven’t done anything that we’ve pushed through other than that. So, hopefully they’re out there and they will be ready to go, and then we’ll see where they go.” For an offense led by quarterback Drake Maye, Stevenson’s presence adds a dynamic layer, allowing for a balanced attack that’s crucial in the late-season grind.
The good news didn’t stop there for New England’s offense. Tight end Austin Hooper, who sat out the entire Week 11 preparation due to a concussion sustained in the Week 10 victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (28-23), was spotted on the field in a red non-contact jersey. While still in concussion protocol, his participation hints at a nearing return, providing Maye with another reliable target in the passing game.
Wide receiver Kayshon Boutte also turned heads by logging full participation despite a lingering hamstring issue. The LSU alum, who exited the Week 9 Falcons game early and missed the next two contests, appears primed for a comeback. Boutte’s speed and route-running could feast on a Bengals secondary that’s struggled mightily, ranking 30th in pass defense by allowing 260.1 yards per game and 23 touchdowns through the air. His return eases the burden on stars like Stefon Diggs, DeMario Douglas, Mack Hollins, and rookie Kyle Williams, injecting fresh energy into the receiving corps.
On the defensive side, the Patriots’ report showed resilience, with players like DT Christian Barmore (non-injury related/other), LB K’Lavon Chaisson (ankle), LB Harold Landry (knee), OT Morgan Moses (rest), and LB Jahlani Tavai (personal) all limited but present. Full participants included LB Christian Elliss (hip), DL Joshua Farmer (ankle), and RB Terrell Jennings (knee), underscoring the team’s depth as they gear up for a Bengals squad that’s no slouch despite their own injury woes.
Speaking of Cincinnati, the Bengals’ injury report painted a more concerning picture, with 10 players listed and five non-participants, including standout defensive end Trey Hendrickson (hip/pelvis) and cornerback Cam Taylor-Britt (foot). Their absences could open doors for the Patriots’ offense, particularly if Stevenson and company are firing on all cylinders. Quarterback Joe Burrow was a full participant despite a toe issue, but backups like Joe Flacco (limited, right shoulder) add uncertainty.
As the Patriots aim to build on recent wins and solidify their playoff push, Stevenson’s return feels like a spark plug in an engine ready to roar. With the Bengals’ run defense ripe for exploitation and New England’s offense regaining key pieces, this Week 12 matchup has all the makings of a statement game. Fans in Foxborough—and across Patriot Nation—will be watching closely as the “walking wounded” transform into game-changers just in time.