Quarterback Tom Brady and defensive end Rob Ninkovich were activated by the New England Patriots after serving four-game NFL suspensions, and both will play at Cleveland against the winless Browns.
Brady was suspended for his part in the Deflategate scandal, while Ninkovich returns for Sunday's (Monday AEDT) clash against the Browns after violating the NFL's performance-enhancing drug policy.
The Patriots previously made room on the roster by placing rookie quarterback Jacoby Brissett on injured reserve and releasing tight end Clay Harbor.
The Patriots, who won their first three games without Brady before being beaten 16-0 by the Buffalo Bills last week, also released guard Jonathan Cooper and signed rookie defensive tackle Woodrow Hamilton off their practice squad.
New England also released offensive guard Jonathan Cooper, who was acquired in an off-season trade that sent defensive end Chandler Jones to the Arizona Cardinals.
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Elsewhere, Tampa Bay ruled out wide receiver Cecil Shorts due to a hamstring injury for Monday night's game against the Carolina Panthers.
