Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports

Cornerback Brandon Browner and wide receiver Brian Tyms will not play Sunday night against the Cincinnati Bengals, announced the New England Patriots. Both Browner and Tyms are eligible to return to game action as their four-game suspensions expired following Monday’s game against Kansas City. While there’s little doubt the two could have an impact, head coach Bill Belichick has other ideas.

Belichick chose not to activate Tyms and Browner ahead of Saturday’s deadline, therefore they aren’t eligible to play in Sunday’s game. Having not been allowed to practice with the team, Belichick feels the two are far from being game ready. The Patriots will be forced to either activate or release Browner and Tyms by this coming Monday.

Many have been eagerly anticipating the return of Browner. The Patriots defense has lacked energy and momentum-sparking plays in recent weeks. Browner is known for his heavy hitting. His presence in the secondary could be exactly what the team needs to get things back on track. Unfortunately, we’ll be forced to wait at least another week to see him make his Patriots debut.

Tyms presents a curious case. The 25-year-old showed explosiveness during the preseason and the ability to go down the field and make plays. The Patriots have had nothing of the sort this season. The team then released Kenbrell Thompkins on Saturday. It would’ve only made sense to activate Tyms. Mixing things up on the offensive end certainly wouldn’t hurt the team given their lackluster output thus far.

Safety Nate Ebner and offensive lineman Cameron Fleming will also miss the game.