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.

Patriots preparing to be without Christian Barmore for the season