Patriots Take Advantage Of Playoff Rule With AFC Championship Elevations

The New England Patriots made some familiar roster moves on Saturday.

New England announced that defensive lineman Leonard Taylor III and running back D’Ernest Johnson were elevated from the practice squad to the active roster — marking the second consecutive week in which that duo earned the call.

Taylor, 23, was elevated for three games during the regular season, as well as the wild-card matchup with the Los Angeles Chargers and the divisional round matchup with the Houston Texans — which is possible because each player receives unlimited elevations for the postseason. The Patriots originally signed him to the practice squad on Oct. 16, 2025, and have seen him since become one of their key depth pieces.

Johnson, 29, was cut loose from the active roster several weeks ago, though he was brought back via the practice squad shortly thereafter. New England utilized the veteran running back as its third-string option throughout each of the last couple of months.

The Patriots made several other moves Saturday, announcing that defensive lineman Joshua Farmer (hamstring) and running back Terrell Jennings (concussion) would not be activated off injured reserve, while wide receiver Mack Hollins (abdomen) was activated and will be available for the AFC Championship on Sunday.