Patriots Face Depth Challenge Ahead of Crucial TNF Matchup Against Jets
The New England Patriots are gearing up for a pivotal Week 11 clash against the New York Jets at Gillette Stadium this Thursday night. As the game approaches, they have announced a list of seven inactives that raises concerns about their depth as they aim to build on their current momentum.
Patriots’ Recent Performance
The Patriots (8-2) come into this matchup riding high after a hard-fought 28-23 victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Meanwhile, the Jets (2-7) are looking to capitalize on their recent success, having secured a 27-20 win against the Cleveland Browns in Week 10, marking their second consecutive victory.
Injury Report and Impact
With just over an hour until kickoff, the Patriots have revealed their list of inactive players:
TE Austin Hooper
RB Rhamondre Stevenson
WR Kayshon Boutte
LB Christian Ellis
DE Joshua Farmer
G Caedan Wallace
QB Tommy DeVito (3rd QB)
Hooper stands out as the most significant absentee, having been ruled out after suffering a concussion during the previous week’s contest against the Buccaneers. This marks a notable blow to the Patriots’ offensive strategy, as Hooper has been a reliable contributor, participating in 55.8% of the team’s offensive snaps this season and accumulating 13 receptions for 174 yards and one touchdown.
In the absence of Hooper, the Patriots may look to elevate either C.J. Dippre or Thomas Odukoya from the practice squad to bolster the tight end position behind starter Hunter Henry and fullback Jack Westover.
Wide Receiver Woes
Kayshon Boutte’s absence compounds the Patriots’ challenges at the wide receiver position. Boutte, who sustained a hamstring injury during their Week 9 victory over the Atlanta Falcons, did not return after exiting in the first half and was inactive last week against the Buccaneers. The rookie wideout has emerged as a promising target for quarterback Drake Maye, tallying 23 catches for 431 yards and five touchdowns prior to his injury.
With Boutte sidelined, rookie Kyle Williams is expected to step into a larger role, capitalizing on the opportunity to fill the void left by Boutte. Williams made headlines in Week 10 by scoring his first NFL touchdown on a remarkable 72-yard reception from Maye, marking not only the longest pass of the quarterback’s career but also the Patriots’ longest touchdown of the season.
As the Patriots prepare to face the Jets, their ability to adapt and effectively utilize their remaining roster depth will be crucial in maintaining their winning trajectory in this closely contested matchup.
