The New England Patriots are getting some much-needed help on the offensive line.
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Patriots are activating offensive lineman Cole Strange from injured reserve. Strange has missed the entire season to this point as he worked his way back from a torn patellar tendon.
Strange, a first-round pick in 2022, projects to return as a starter along an offensive line that has struggled all season. Strange has been on injured reserve since he was carted off the field last the end of last season.
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Strange returned to practice on Nov. 20, starting the 21-day window for him to return to the active roster. Tuesday’s news marks Strange’s full return to the lineup and opens the door for him to play Sunday against the Arizona Cardinals.
Previously, Strange has played left guard for the Patriots. While he could return to that role, Strange has also been working out at center since returning to practice.
Michael Jordan occupied that left guard spot for much of the year. Jordan played well early on before struggling in recent weeks. After being cut and landing on the practice squad, he was replaced by rookie Layden Robinson at the left guard spot.
The Patriots opened up a spot for Strange on the roster after parting ways with veteran receiver K.J. Osborn earlier on Tuesday.
Last month, Jerod Mayo said the team was excited to get Strange back on the field. But more than anything, Mayo praised the work Strange put in to return.
“Exciting not only for him to get back out there, but just understanding the journey that he’s taken even to get to this point,” Mayo said. “Oftentimes those things looked over, but it is a journey any time you’re coming back from injury — which I know the feeling — it’s not a straight line to getting back to the way you used to play. It takes time going through rehab and all those things. It’s been a long year for Cole, but excited to have him out there.”