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Super Bowl Surprise: Unlikely Heroes Emerge for Patriots & Seahawks
8 Feb
Summary
- Four lesser-known players elevated to active rosters for Super Bowl LX.
- Cam Akers, notable for his comeback, is among Seattle's elevated players.
- The Patriots and Seahawks aim for their first Super Bowl wins since 2018 and 2013.
Ahead of Super Bowl LX, both the New England Patriots and Seattle Seahawks have finalized their active rosters by elevating four players. These strategic moves were reported on Saturday, February 7, 2026, by Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.
The elevated players include running backs D'Ernest Johnson and Cam Akers for Seattle, and running backs Velus Jones Jr. and defensive lineman Leonard Taylor for New England.
Cam Akers stands out as a notable name, having been part of the Rams' Super Bowl-winning team in 2021. His remarkable recovery from an Achilles tear that same year garnered significant attention in sports medicine. Akers has appeared in three games for the Seahawks this season without a carry.
D'Ernest Johnson, previously a change-of-pace back for the Browns over four seasons, has recorded 13 carries for 25 yards with the Patriots this season. Leonard Taylor, a product of Miami, played in 14 games for the Jets in 2024. Velus Jones Jr. is in his first year as a running back after a position change, having played for both the Saints and Seattle this season.
The Patriots are pursuing their first Super Bowl title since 2018, while the Seahawks aim to secure their first championship since 2013.
