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mike rees
Foxborough, Mass. — The new England Patriots Will be without five starters for Sunday’s road game against New York JetsBut there’s still a chance for the rookie running back, according to head coach Mike Vrabel traveyon henderson He is available as he progresses through concussion protocol.
Starters who have already been ruled out include wide receivers kayshon boute (blow) and mac hollins (stomach); defensive end Harold Landry III (Knee); linebacker robert spillane (ankle) and left guard Jared Wilson (Shock).
Meanwhile, Vrabel said the defensive tackle milton williams (Ankle) will not be activated to the active roster this week after being designated to return from the injured reserve list on Tuesday. Williams’ projected replacement, Khyiris TongaAccording to Vrabel, he will also miss Sunday’s game due to a foot injury. Also, reserve receiver Demario “Pop” Douglas He is doubtful with a hamstring injury.
“Everybody deals with it. It’s nothing new to the National Football League. We’ll move some guys up.” [from the practice squad] And some people have to sign and go from there,” Vrabel said.
The Patriots faced injuries in last Sunday’s comeback Baltimore RavensHenderson, who leads the team with 776 rushing yards on 148 carries (5.2 average), left the game in the second quarter after hitting the back of his head on the ground while being tackled.
Henderson practiced on a limited basis Wednesday in a red, non-contact jersey, the first indication that he was progressing through the concussion protocol. Then at the team’s next practice on Friday, he was in a regular jersey, showing he’s taken another step forward. The team listed him as a full participant.
The final step in clearing players into the concussion protocol for game action is being evaluated by an independent neurological consultant.
The Patriots (12-3) can capture their first AFC East title since 2019 if they win their final two games – at the Jets (3-12) and at home miami dolphins (6-9). If they win both games, and denver broncos losing from tour los angeles chargers In Week 18, they would earn the AFC’s No. 1 seed and a first-round bye.
A win over the Jets on Sunday would also move them to 8-0 on the season.
“I think it would mean a lot. We know how difficult it is,” Vrabel said about posting an undefeated road record with the final game against a division rival. “Nothing’s guaranteed. You’ve got to go out there, you’ve got to prove it, and you’ve got to play.”
