Patriots add 2 players to active roster in last-minute decision ahead of Super Bowl

Super Bowl 60 is right around the corner, and anticipation continues to build as both teams finalize their injury reports and active rosters for Sunday’s matchup between the New England Patriots and Seattle Seahawks.

Ahead of kickoff, the Patriots made a last-minute decision to elevate two notable players to the active roster.

Head coach Mike Vrabel opted to activate running back D’Ernest Johnson — who has spent much of the season contributing on special teams as a kickoff returner — along with defensive end Leonard Taylor III.

Both players are familiar faces this season. Sunday will mark Johnson’s 11th game with New England and Taylor’s seventh appearance.

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Patriots elevated RB D’Ernest Johnson and DE Leonard Taylor III to their active roster for Super Bowl LX.

While both are expected to fill depth roles, each has shown the ability to make an impact when called upon. Taylor did just that in the AFC Championship Game, getting a hand on a late Denver Broncos field-goal attempt that could have tied the game.

Even if they don’t see extended snaps at their primary positions, both players should factor in on special teams — an area that can quietly swing a game of this magnitude, where one mistake or timely play can make all the difference.

The Seahawks responded to New England’s roster moves with a pair of their own, as they continue to manage the injury to running back Zach Charbonnet, who was hurt prior to the NFC Championship Game.

Seattle added Cam Akers and Velus Jones Jr. to the active roster for Sunday’s matchup, bolstering the backfield depth behind Kenneth Walker III.

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