New England beat the Bears 19-3 in Week 10.
The New England Patriots’ win over the Chicago Bears in Week 10 would not have been possible without contributions from some of their under-the-radar talent. Five of those players have since been recognized by the team for their efforts leading up to the 19-3 victory, and named as Practice Player of the Week.
Head coach Jerod Mayo announced the group during a press conference on Wednesday morning:
- LB Keshawn Banks
- CB D.J. James
- WR John Jiles
- QB Joe Milton III
- OL Lecitus Smith
“Those guys did a great job for us. They deserve to be recognized,” said Mayo. “We give them the black jerseys, but oftentimes those guys get forgotten — the guys on the practice squad — and there’s nothing more important during the week that we do than practice. Some of those guys they not out there on Sunday, but I think they definitely deserve to be recognized.”
Of the five players awarded the honor, one made the actual game day roster versus the Bears. Backup offensive lineman Lecitus Smith played five snaps on special teams as a member of New England’s field goal and extra point protection unit.
Third-string/emergency quarterback Joe Milton was made inactive, while Keshawn Banks, D.J. James and John Jiles remained on the practice squad without being promoted.
Following their win in Chicago, the Patriots will host the Los Angeles Rams at Gillette Stadium in Week 11.