Overview
- Head coach Mike Vrabel said he expects Tavai to practice and to return to play, while declining to say if he will be activated for Sunday in Buffalo.
- New England has carried an open spot on the 53-man roster for weeks, allowing a potential activation without a corresponding cut.
- Tavai missed the first four games after a June calf injury led to a PUP start in camp and an injured reserve designation at final cuts.
- The 29-year-old has 44 starts in 64 Patriots games with 308 tackles and multiple takeaways, and he signed a three-year, $16 million extension in 2024.
- The 2-2 Patriots visit the undefeated Bills on Sunday night at Highmark Stadium, and league rules permit activation at any point within the 21-day window.