The Patriots have officially activated linebacker Jahlani Tavai from injured reserve.
Tavai, who has been out with a calf injury, returned to practice Wednesday, triggering his 21-day clock to be activated.
He took an open spot on New England’s 53-man roster, so no other moves were necessary.
Should he play Sunday night against the Buffalo Bills, he could see some time next to Robert Spillane.
Christian Elliss and Jack Gibbens have been rotating in that spot the last few weeks. It might be all hands on deck trying to slow down Bills quarterback and reigning NFL MVP Josh Allen.
Tavai might also see some special teams action.
On Friday, Patriots coach Mike Vrabel spoke highly about Tavai’s efforts to return to the lineup.
“(He) worked really hard. Worked really hard to be in shape, trying to simulate football shape and his return to play, trying to maximize the time away from the actual practice, and working with our training staff, working with our strength coaches and was ready to go,” Vrabel said. “And so, it was exciting to see him get out there and get practice, defense and the special teams, and trying to see where he’s at.”
Obviously it was good enough to get back on the active roster. Tavai first injured his calf on June 2 during organized team activities. He started training camp on the physically unable to perform list, but eventually practiced before re-aggravating the injury, landing back on IR with a designation to return.
Meanwhile DT Milton Williams (ankle) and Carlton Davis III (illness) traveled with the team to Buffalo for Sunday night’s game.
Also, for the first time this year, the Patriots are not elevating a practice squad player for a game.
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