Mitchell decision today
Receiver done if not added to roster
A final decision on Malcolm Mitchell’s status for the AFC Championship Game will come today.
The wide receiver, who has been on injured reserve, returned to practice Dec. 27, opening a threeweek window before the Patriots need to make a decision on whether to put him on the 53-man roster. So if they want him to play against the Jaguars on Sunday and be viable for the Super Bowl should the Patriots advance, he needs to be put on the roster.
If Mitchell’s not, his season is finished. He cannot be activated for the Super Bowl.
Mitchell missed practice on Tuesday and Wednesday last week but returned Thursday. He was placed on injured reserve before the season opener against Kansas City with a knee injury that dated to the spring.
He caught 32 passes for 401 yards and four touchdowns as a rookie and was a pivotal performer in Super Bowl LI, making six catches for 70 yards, including five for 63 in the second half against the Falcons.
Let’s play not say
During his weekly radio interview with WEEI, Patriots quarterback Tom Brady was asked about Jalen Ramsey’s bold remarks when the Jaguars cornerback was already on to the Super Bowl, predicting wins against the Patriots and whoever the NFC opponent is in Minneapolis.
“I think what I have learned for a long time is it’s how you play, it’s not what you say,” Brady said. “Everyone has different ways of handling things — players do, coaches do. We do what works for us, other players do what works for them. The game is going to be decided by who plays the best, not who hypes the best or speaks the best.
“He’s a really good player. I have watched a ton of film on him. He has a lot of strengths. He’s obviously very confident. That is reflected in how he plays. I am more concerned about how he plays opposed to what he says.”
Instead of Ramsey’s trash talk, Brady is going to focus on how to beat the Jaguars.
“We’re going to have to play really well to score points,” Brady said. “Again, that just speaks to the hype and us really trying to stay focused on what we need to do. The better we stay focused or the more laser-focused we are on our target, the better I think we will play.”
Fournette in car accident
Jaguars running back Leonard Fournette was involved in a minor car accident yesterday but was not injured, according to the team.
The Jaguars say Fournette’s car was rear-ended, and the rear bumper of his 2017 Mercedes Maybach was knocked off. He signed the bumper and gave it to one of the first responders.
“Leonard is OK and was able to drive home,” the team said. “Appreciate everyone that has reached out to check on him.”
Fournette ran for 109 yards and three touchdowns in the Jaguars’ 45-42 victory against Pittsburgh on Sunday. He left the game with a right ankle injury but returned in the second half.
He should be good to go against the Patriots.