Patriots face multiple injuries ahead of Jets matchup
New England lost three key players to injury in its Week 5 win over the Raiders, leaving the running back, left tackle and defensive end as question marks for the upcoming game against the Jets.
New England Patriots coach Mike Vrabel will have to manage several injuries as the team prepares for its Week 6 contest with the New York Jets. Running back TreVeyon Henderson left the win over the Las Vegas Raiders with a high-ankle sprain that is expected to keep him out for multiple weeks. Left tackle Will Campbell, who re-injured his knee, and defensive end Dre’Mont Jones, both listed as questionable with knee and shoulder issues respectively, also remain unavailable.
The Patriots’ secondary was further depleted when cornerback Charles Woods, already dealing with a shoulder problem, was knocked down in the third quarter but later returned to the field. Defensive tackle Cory Durden was briefly sidelined after a collision but resumed play shortly thereafter.
With Henderson out, the Patriots will rely on Rhamondre Stevenson and Corey Kiner as the primary backs, while practice-squad runner Lan Larison provides depth. Caleb Lomu is expected to continue starting at left tackle until Campbell is cleared. If Jones’s shoulder injury limits him, Elijah Ponder and Gabe Jacas could see increased snaps.
The team also anticipates the return of wide receiver A.J. Brown, who is eligible to practice after missing several weeks with a high-ankle sprain. The Patriots will resume practice on Wednesday to prepare for the Jets game.