Patriots Near Full Strength as Stevenson Eyes Return vs. Bengals

The New England Patriots closed out their practice week Friday with encouraging signs that their offense could be at or near full capacity for Sunday’s home matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals. Starting running back Rhamondre Stevenson took part in a third consecutive practice, continuing to work his way back from a toe injury that sidelined him for the past three games. His availability has been a looming question for a Patriots unit striving to maintain offensive momentum.

Stevenson’s potential return comes at an opportune time, particularly as New England prepares to face a Cincinnati defense that has been among the league’s least effective this season. While the Patriots compensated with unexpected production from rookie TreVeyon Henderson, the prospect of pairing both backs could provide a substantial boost to a team that has leaned heavily on its ground attack.

The Patriots’ backfield surge has complemented a defense that ranks among the league’s more reliable groups, setting the stage for a matchup that could tilt heavily toward ball control and clock management. If Stevenson is cleared to play, New England’s offensive depth could place added pressure on Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow in his return to action.

With both teams dealing with injuries and absences at key positions, Sunday’s matchup projects as a contrast between New England’s emerging balance and Cincinnati’s struggle to regain stability on both sides of the ball.

1. Stevenson’s Return and Henderson’s Emergence

Stevenson’s availability has been a focal point of New England’s weekly preparation, and all indicators suggest he is trending toward a return. The running back has been working through a lingering toe issue that kept him sidelined, but multiple consecutive practices have strengthened expectations that he will be active against Cincinnati. His absence opened the door for rookie TreVeyon Henderson, whose breakout stretch served as one of the Patriots’ most notable storylines during Stevenson’s recovery. Henderson rushed for 262 yards and four touchdowns over the past three games, adding another receiving score while showcasing versatility that expanded New England’s playbook. The emergence of Henderson has reduced the urgency surrounding Stevenson’s return, giving the Patriots the flexibility to manage their backfield workload without relying on a single feature back. Should Stevenson suit up Sunday, New England may utilize a balanced rotation that maximizes both players’ strengths. With the Bengals entering the week ranked last in points allowed and near the bottom in rush defense, the Patriots’ strengthened backfield could provide a significant advantage in terms of sustained drives and early control of game tempo.

2. Bengals’ Defensive Struggles and Offensive Needs

Cincinnati enters Week 12 with concerns that extend beyond Burrow’s health. The Bengals’ defense has been a persistent liability, ranking last in points allowed, surrendering more than 160 rushing yards per game, and struggling against the pass. Those issues have repeatedly placed the offense in catch-up situations that hinder their ability to establish balance. The unit’s vulnerability was evident earlier this season when it allowed Justin Fields to produce one of his most efficient performances, signaling broader systemic issues. Poor tackling, inconsistent pressure, and lapses in coverage have contributed to a string of high-scoring games from opponents. Burrow, who practiced fully throughout the week, appears set to return, but his comeback will not include his top playmaker. Star wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase will serve a one-game suspension after an on-field incident involving Steelers defensive back Jalen Ramsey, removing a critical element from Cincinnati’s passing attack. Without Chase and with the Patriots expected to control possession through the run game, Cincinnati may be forced into a pass-heavy approach that tests Burrow’s rhythm and the Bengals’ ability to sustain drives without their leading receiver.

3. Patriots’ Defensive Edge and Matchup Outlook

New England’s defense has been one of the most consistent components of its roster, particularly against the run. The Patriots have stifled opposing ground games throughout the season, routinely creating long-yardage situations that favor their pressure packages and disciplined coverage. Cincinnati running back Chase Brown is expected to shoulder the primary workload, but New England’s defensive front poses a difficult challenge. If Brown struggles to generate early yardage, the Bengals may become overly dependent on Burrow’s arm against a secondary capable of shrinking passing windows. Combined with the expectation that New England’s offense will move the ball effectively on the ground, the matchup projects as a scenario where the Patriots can dictate tempo and force Cincinnati into uncomfortable situations. Sustained drives and a balanced offensive approach would further strain a Bengals defense that has struggled to contain explosive plays. If Stevenson joins Henderson in the backfield, New England will likely emphasize early-down efficiency and controlled possession—strategies that could keep the Bengals’ offense on the sideline and tilt the game’s momentum in the Patriots’ favor.