Patriots assess injury list ahead of Raiders matchup after 29-26 win over Bills
New England beat Buffalo 29-26 while sustaining several injuries, most of which were deemed minor, as the team prepares to host Las Vegas on Sunday.
The New England Patriots defeated the Buffalo Bills 29-26 on Sunday, improving to 2-2 in the season. The win was accompanied by a series of injuries to seven players, though most were classified as questionable rather than serious.
Fullback Reggie Gilliam left the game early with a knee issue, returned later in the second quarter, and contributed to a touchdown run. Defensive end Dre’Mont Jones, returning from a shoulder injury, was slowed by a fall but finished the game without limitation. Quarterback Drake Maye, listed on the injury report before the game, appeared to favor his right elbow after a pass but continued playing and led the offense.
Wide receiver Mack Hollins suffered a non-contact calf injury in the third quarter and did not return. Rookie tight end Eli Raridon, who missed the previous game with a thigh injury, briefly left the field with an ankle concern but resumed play within a few snaps. Cornerback Charles Woods, filling in for an injured teammate, was treated for a “stinger” after a tackle and missed only a short period. Running back Rhamondre Stevenson exited late in the fourth quarter after a tackle but showed no visible distress afterward.
The injuries add to three players already ruled out—defensive tackle Christian Barmore, cornerbacks Christian Gonzalez and Channing Canada—plus several contributors on the reserve list. Coach Mike Vrabel noted that Hollins' calf injury is the only one likely to affect the upcoming game against the Raiders. If Hollins remains limited, wide receiver Efton Chism, who made key catches in the win, is expected to see increased playing time.
Several players are now eligible to return from various injury designations, including Brenden Schooler, Harold Landry, Marcus Bryant, Khalil Jacobs and Bryce Baringer. The Patriots will host the Las Vegas Raiders at Gillette Stadium on Sunday, with the first practice of the week scheduled for Wednesday providing further insight into player availability.