This Sunday, the New England Patriots face a challenging matchup against the New York Jets. However, the team is dealing with several injuries. Key players out include wide receiver Kayshon Boutte (concussion), linebacker Robert Spillane (ankle), and defensive lineman Khyiris Tonga (foot). Even though defensive tackle Milton Williams and wide receiver Mack Hollins are on injured reserve, they will not contribute to this week’s game.
On a brighter note, rookie wide receiver DeMario Douglas is active after recovering from a hamstring issue. He and rookie running back TreVeyon Henderson have both cleared concussion protocols. Given that the Patriots are missing three starters, having Douglas and Henderson back is a significant boost.
Unfortunately, Hollins has been placed on injured reserve due to an abdominal injury, sidelining him for at least the next four games. Hollins played a crucial role as the team’s leading wide receiver in snaps. His absence, along with Boutte’s, will surely be felt on the field.
With these injuries, the Patriots will field four active wide receivers: Stefon Diggs, Kyle Williams, DeMario Douglas, and Efton Chism III. The most likely lineup will feature Williams, Diggs, and Chism. If Douglas can manage his hamstring, he may also play in the slot, making their offense a bit more versatile.
The Patriots have surprisingly underused two-tight end sets this season, only employing them in 20.6% of plays. With tight ends Hunter Henry and Austin Hooper on the roster, it makes sense to utilize them more, especially after losing a key player like Hollins. Improving their run game, which currently averages just 3.5 yards per carry in such formations, will be essential for their success.
At running back, Henderson will join lead-back Rhamondre Stevenson and D’Ernest Johnson. Henderson’s recent entry into concussion protocol raised concerns, but after practicing fully, he’s back in action. His performance will be closely watched, especially since the team leans heavily on Stevenson, who played over 83% of the snaps last week.
On offense, the line will see Ben Brown replace Jared Wilson at left guard, as Wilson continues to recover from a concussion. Brown has shown strong performance in previous games, allowing no sacks during his starts.
Defensively, the Patriots are missing key players in the front seven with Spillane and Tonga out. They’ve signed DT Jeremiah Pharms Jr. and elevated DT Leonard Taylor III for added support. Jack Gibbens and Christian Elliss are expected to start at linebacker, while other players like Jahlani Tavai will also be useful given their rotation strategy.
Stopping the Jets’ run game will be crucial. Star running back Breece Hall ranks 11th in the NFL with 24 explosive runs, and the Patriots must focus on curbing these plays. Furthermore, the Jets lead the league in kickoff return average, making special teams performance a vital aspect of the game.
As the Patriots prepare for kickoff at MetLife Stadium, all eyes will be on how well they can adapt to their injuries and execute their game plan against the Jets.
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Inactives Analysis,Analysis,Pregame-Content,hp-article,hp-featured,New England Patriots at New York Jets (2025-REG-17)
