With linebacker and offensive lineman injuries ahead of Sunday’s game with Carolina, the Patriots elevated Darius Harris and Brenden Jaimes from the practice squad to the active roster.
New England didn’t elevate a defensive back, adding to the optimism that Christian Gonzalez, who is listed as questionable, will make his 2025 debut this week.
James, 26, gives the Patriots depth on the suddenly thin offensive line. Starting left guard Jared Wilson is out and starting right guard Mike Onwenu is questionable for Sunday.
James, a 6-foot-5, 300-pound lineman is a former fifth-round pick of the Chargers out of Nebraska. He was in camp this year with Tennessee didn’t make the roster out of camp.
He has played 45 games, all with the Chargers, and has three starts.
K’Lavon Chaisson is uncertain to go to face the Panthers with a knee injury, so Harris will be active. The 29-year-old linebacker has played in 37 NFL games with the Chiefs and Cowboys.
The former Tennessee State star had 55 career NFL tackles, 1.5 sacks and two fumble recoveries.
Carolina made similar moves. The upgraded offensive lineman Brandon Walton and outside linebacker Boogie Basham for the matchup.
The fact that they didn’t elevate a running back or a wide receiver supports the ESPN report that running back Chuba Hubbard and receiver Tetairoa McMillan are expected to play despite being listed as questionable on Friday’s injury report.
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