The New England Patriots could be without a few members of their front seven when they take on the Miami Dolphins on Sunday.
So, New England took action in case that situation actually happens.
The Patriots announced Saturday that they elevated linebacker Keshawn Banks from the practice squad to the active roster for the second straight week. New England also promoted tight end Jack Westover for the first time.
Banks didn’t play any defensive snaps in New England’s loss last week to the Los Angeles Rams, but saw time on special teams in his Patriots debut. There might be a better chance of Banks getting on the field with the defensive unit if linebackers Anfernee Jennings and Sione Takitaki can’t suit up due to knee injuries. Both are listed as questionable for the contest while defensive ends Deatrich Wise Jr. and Keion White have that similar status.
Banks signed with the Patriots practice squad a month ago after the Green Bay Packers released him following training camp. The 24-year-old San Diego State product has yet to record an NFL tackle.
Westover could make his NFL debut Sunday. He joined the Seattle Seahawks as an undrafted free agent this spring before being waived due to injury at the end of training camp. The Patriots signed Westover to their practice squad in early October.
Westover was college teammates at Washington with Ja’Lynn Polk so perhaps the presence of the 6-foot-2, 245-pound tight end could help get the struggling wide receiver going.
Banks and Westover will try to contribute to the Patriots finally beating the Dolphins on the road. New England has dropped its last four games in Miami. Kickoff from Hard Rock Stadium is scheduled for 1 p.m. ET.
