The New England Patriots are getting some much-needed help on the offensive line.
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefterthe Patriots activate offensive lineman Cole Strange from injured reserve. Strange has missed the entire season so far as he returned from a torn patella tendon.
Strange, a 2022 first-round pick, plans to return as the starter along an offensive line that has struggled all season. Strange has been on injured reserve since being carted off the field late last season.
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Strange returned to practice on November 20, beginning 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 played left guard for the Patriots. Although he could return to that role, Strange has also been training at the center since returning to training.
Michael Jordan played that left guard position for much of the year. Jordan played well early before struggling in recent weeks. After being cut and landing on the practice squad, he was replaced by rookie Layden Robinson at left guard.
The Patriots opened a roster spot for Strange after parting ways with veteran wide receiver KJ Osborn earlier 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 did to come back.
“It’s exciting not only for him to get back there, but to understand the journey he took to get here,” Mayo said. “A lot of times those things have been overlooked, but anytime you come back from an injury, it’s not a straight line to get back to the way you were playing. It takes time to go through rehab and all those things. It’s been a long year for Cole, but I’m excited to have him there.
