The New England Patriots face a crucial divisional matchup against the New York Jets on Thursday Night Football, but they’ll be without several key offensive players. Wide receiver Kayshon Boutte, tight end Austin Hooper, and running back Rhamondre Stevenson are all inactive for the game, forcing the Patriots to rely on their depth and make strategic adjustments. This article provides an in-depth analysis of who will fill these important roles and how their absence will impact the Patriots’ game plan.
With Stevenson sidelined for his third consecutive game and Boutte missing his second, the Patriots’ offense faces a significant test. Hooper’s absence further complicates matters, particularly given the team’s reliance on tight end formations. We’ll examine the potential replacements for each player, assess their strengths and weaknesses, and explore how the Patriots might adapt their offensive approach to compensate for these key absences.
Replacing Kayshon Boutte at Wide Receiver
Kayshon Boutte’s hamstring injury keeps him out for the second straight game, leaving a void at the ‘X’ receiver position. While the injury is reportedly minor, the Patriots are taking a cautious approach with the rookie. In his absence, rookie Kyle Williams and veteran Mack Hollins stepped up last week, and are expected to do the same this week.
Hollins had a standout performance last week with six catches for 106 yards, showcasing his ability to contribute significantly in Boutte’s absence. Williams also made a big play, scoring a 72-yard touchdown. The Patriots will likely lean on this duo to provide a spark in the passing game, with other receivers like Tyquan Thornton and Jalen Reagor potentially seeing increased opportunities as well.
Addressing Austin Hooper’s Absence at Tight End
Austin Hooper’s concussion presents a unique challenge for the Patriots, as they lack depth at the tight end position behind veterans Hunter Henry and Hooper. The team did not elevate a tight end from the practice squad, indicating they may explore alternative solutions.
One option is to utilize fullback Jack Westover in two-back formations or incorporate Khyiris Tonga, typically a nose tackle, in a fullback package. Another possibility is to use wide receiver Mack Hollins as a “move” tight end, blurring the lines between three-receiver and two-receiver sets. While Hooper’s absence is a concern, the Patriots have several options to mitigate the impact.
Managing Rhamondre Stevenson’s Absence in the Backfield
Rhamondre Stevenson’s toe injury continues to sideline him, placing added pressure on the Patriots’ running back corps. Backup RB Terrell Jennings is active despite a knee injury from last week. Rookie TreVeyon Henderson, who has impressed in recent weeks, is expected to take the lead in the backfield, but with Jennings being active, his workload is uncertain.
Henderson has been a bright spot for the Patriots, showcasing his explosiveness with a 55-yard and a 69-yard touchdown run last week. The Patriots will need Henderson to maintain that level of production against a tough Jets defense. Jennings’ availability will be key, as he was getting a share of carries before his injury. D’Ernest Johnson is also available as a kickoff returner and potential passing-down back.
Projected Offensive Line and Supporting Cast
Despite the injuries at the skill positions, the Patriots are expected to start the same five offensive linemen for the 10th time in 11 games, providing some stability for quarterback Drake Maye. The projected starting lineup is LT Campbell, LG Wilson, C Bradbury, RG Onwenu, and RT Moses.
The receiving corps will consist of Diggs, Hollins, Douglas, Williams, and Chism III, while the tight end duties will primarily fall to Henry and Westover. Henderson, Jennings, and Johnson will handle the running back responsibilities. This group will need to step up and provide Maye with the support he needs to succeed against the Jets.
Defensive Adjustments and Impact
On the defensive side, the Patriots will be without linebacker Christian Elliss for the second consecutive game due to a hip injury. His absence was felt last week as the run defense struggled against the Buccaneers. Jack Gibbens is expected to fill in for Elliss, with Jahlani Tavai and Marte Mapu also contributing at linebacker.
Rookie defensive tackle Joshua Farmer is also inactive due to an ankle injury, giving rookie Eric Gregory the opportunity to make his NFL debut. The Patriots’ run defense will need to be much improved against a Jets team that features a potent rushing attack led by Breece Hall. Limiting Hall’s explosive runs will be crucial to the Patriots’ success.
Jets’ Inactives and Key Matchups
The Jets will be without star wide receiver Garrett Wilson, who was placed on injured reserve, and starting cornerback Azareye’h Thomas. These absences could limit the Jets’ passing game and create opportunities for the Patriots’ offense.
The Patriots will look to exploit these weaknesses and take advantage of the Jets’ depleted roster. The key matchup to watch will be the Patriots’ run defense against the Jets’ rushing attack. If the Patriots can contain Hall and force the Jets to rely on their passing game, they will be in a good position to extend their winning streak.
Conclusion: Patriots Aim to Extend Winning Streak
Despite being shorthanded on offense and defense, the New England Patriots will look to extend their winning streak to eight games when they host the New York Jets on Thursday Night Football. The team will need its key players to step up and fill the void left by the injured starters.
With a win, the Patriots would improve to 9-2, surpassing their win total from the previous two seasons combined. The game kicks off at 8:15 p.m. ET at Gillette Stadium, and promises to be a hard-fought battle between two division rivals.
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