Injured Patriots running back expected to play vs. Bengals

As the New England Patriots prepare for their Sunday afternoon meeting with the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium, a few players' statuses are still up in the air.

However, ESPN's Adam Schefter and Mike Reiss have provided an update on one injured Patriot , reporting that running back Antonio Gibson, who's been dealing with a hip injury, is expected to play in the Week 1 matchup.

Gibson, 26, signed a three-year, $11.25 million deal with New England this offseason after spending his first four seasons with the Washington Commanders.

With Rhamondre Stevenson being the team's lead back, Gibson will probably have a role spelling Stevenson and also providing some help as a pass catcher in an offense that desperately needs it.

Considering how poor the Patriots offensive line has looked in preseason and training camp, having a back who can catch out of the backfield consistently could help keep the offense afloat.

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