The Patriots get Damien Harris, Gunner Olszewski back, but lose Josh Uche

Patriots

Josh Uche must miss at least three games after going on injured reserve, but Chase Winovich’s return from IR comes at some point for the Patriots.

The New England Patriots’ Damien Harris is running against the New York Jets. Winslow Townson / AP Photos

The Patriots should be a little closer to full strength this week with a few crucial players left in the lineup for Thursday’s game against the Atlanta Falcons.

Starting backwards Damien Harris and Gunner Olszewski (concussion) were officially taken off the injury report after clearing concussion protocol and expected to play against the Falcons.

Harris, who missed last week’s game, could be critically important in keeping the Patriots’ ground game running in a short week. Rookie Rhamondre Stevenson got 20 physical carriers for 100 yards last Sunday against the Cleveland Browns and could use a bit of a respite ahead of his first game Thursday night.

Olszewski, meanwhile, should hopefully bring some stability back to the return match, especially after Jakobi Meyers looked uncomfortable playing and returning points.

Among players more questionable to play is tight-end Jonnu Smith, who missed the Browns game with a shoulder injury but traveled with the team to Atlanta.

But one notable name will definitely be off the field for New England for at least the next three games.

The team placed linebacker Josh Uche (ankle) on injured reserve yesterday, putting an end to his second campaign. The earliest he can return to the game would be for New England’s Week 15 game against the Indianapolis Colts on December 19th. He will also get an extra week of rest with the Patriots’ bye week taking place in week 14.

Uche’s much – awaited second season has not quite been the monstrous outburst many hoped for. He has the same amount of pressure (14) as he did last year with fewer total snaps, even though he has three sacks in 2021 compared to one last year.

Still, his loss removes one of the Patriots’ most explosive pass-rushers on the outside.

Fortunately, New England activated outside linebacker Chase Winovich from IR this week, suggesting he could be available Thursday to tackle Uche out.

The team also released specialist Malcolm Perry from IR.

Sign up for Patriots Updates

Get the latest news and analytics delivered to your inbox during the football season.