Sherman to dress vs. Patriots days after signing with Bucs

Tampa Bay Buccaneers cornerback Richard Sherman will be active Sunday night against the New England Patriots, Bruce Arians announced Friday, according to The Athletic's Greg Auman.

However, his playing time remains unclear.

Sherman, who signed a one-year deal with the Bucs on Wednesday, previously said he'd benefit from a week of ramping up his practice participation before playing, but the five-time Pro Bowler would be ready if needed. However, the veteran will be active after cornerback Jamel Dean was ruled out.

Meanwhile, Rob Gronkowski and Jason Pierre-Paul will be game-time decisions, Arians added. Gronkowski is nursing a rib injury after taking a big hit in Week 3, while Pierre-Paul is recovering from a shoulder issue that sidelined him last Sunday.

Gronkowski practiced Friday for the first time this week, according to ESPN's Jenna Laine. Pierre-Paul also took part for the first time since Sept. 15.

The Buccaneers will be without running back Giovani Bernard due to a knee injury as well.

The prime-time game against the Patriots will be the first time playing in New England for Gronkowski and Tom Brady since they departed in 2020.