Cam Newton, QB: It appears that Newton is set to make his return after missing the game against the Chiefs. There's been no question, Newton has been the team's early MVP and will now be looking to pick things up where they left off.

Damien Harris, RB: Harris ran for 100 yards against the Chiefs and will be looking to build on the best performance of his young career. He should get plenty of carries against Denver and has the chance to help open up New England's offensive options early on. Another explosive run like the 41-yarder he had against KC would be a great sign.

Chase Winovich, LB: Winovich has taken significant strides in his second season, putting up two-and-a-half sacks in four games along with three tackles-for-loss, six QB hits and a forced fumble. With a young quarterback prone to mistakes under center, Winovich could force some more game-changing plays and continue his development.

J.C. Jackson, CB: While Stephon Gilmore could be back in uniform, Jackson could still see an expanded role against the Broncos' receiving threats. He has been one of the most consistent cornerbacks on the roster and he should see plenty of Jeudy and Tim Patrick. The RFA-to-be is putting together his best season.

Julian Edelman, WR: Edelman has had a reduced workload this season, playing 68 percent of the snaps as the team tries to manage a lingering knee issue that has kept him on the Injury Report. Still New England's best receiver, Edelman could use a bounce-back game against the Broncos. The offense really needs him and having Newton back could really help Edelman.

Drew Lock, QB: Drew Lock returned to practice last week and now appears likely to start the twice-delayed contest. He completed two-thirds of his passes in a tough Week 1 loss to the Titans and gives the Broncos a big boost with his return.

Jerry Jeudy, WR: The Broncos have been decimated by injuries, but rookie receiver Jerry Jeudy remains a healthy bright spot, leading the team with 28 targets, including a 48-yard touchdown from Brett Rypien in Week 4. Considered by many to be the best receiver in his draft class, Jeudy won't have much support with Cortland Sutton out and Noah Fant questionable, but having Lock back will help and he still has a promising future.

Josey Jewell, LB: A part-time player in his first two seasons, Jewell has emerged as an every-down defender for the Broncos, leading the team in tackles while also picking up two sacks last week against the Jets. If the Patriots are to get their run game going, it will have to go through Jewell.

Justin Simmons, S: The Patriots will have to be careful of the former Boston College standout Simmons, who plays every down and has a 37-yard interception return this season. Simmons is an active safety who will be all over Denver's defense and is most likely to make New England pay for any bad throws.

Phillip Lindsay, RB: Lindsay is also slated to likely return this week after missing three games. A two-time 1,000-yard rusher in his first two seasons with 70 catches as well, Lindsay is Denver's most balanced back and figures to the give the Patriots plenty of matchup issues going into the game.