FOXBORO -- The Patriots appear to be getting two of their better players back Saturday against the Titans.
Alan Branch, who missed the last three games of the season, and Rex Burkhead, who missed the final two games, both spoke in the Patriots locker room Wednesday, which is a good indication they will be able to play in the divisional round.
“I’m just ready to get back out there with the team,” Burkhead said. “I’m just excited for the playoffs and everything that’s in store. … Whatever happens, happens. Throughout the process, I was really just kind of focused on this time and excited for these games.” Burkhead injured his knee against the Steelers in Week 15. In 10 games this season, Burkhead rushed for 264 yards and five touchdowns, while adding 254 receiving yards and three touchdowns.
Branch suffered his knee injury in Miami during the Week 14 loss.
“I feel like I’m good to go," he said.
If the Patriots can get both players back, it certainly would help things on both sides of the ball. Tennessee will be relying heavily on the run, while it struggles with covering running backs out of the backfield.