Patriots’ Replacements for Boutte, Stevenson, Elliss Against Bucs on Sunday
The New England Patriots are facing significant challenges as they prepare to take on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers this Sunday. The team has announced its game-day inactives, which include wide receiver Kayshon Boutte, running back Rhamondre Stevenson, and linebacker Christian Elliss. Boutte’s absence will be keenly felt, as he has emerged as a prominent deep threat in the NFL.
Patriots’ Replacements for Boutte, Stevenson, and Elliss
Key players sidelined for the Patriots include:
- WR Kayshon Boutte (hamstring)
- RB Rhamondre Stevenson (toe)
- LB Christian Elliss (hip)
- DT Eric Gregory
- G Caedan Wallace
- FS John Saunders
- QB Tommy DeVito (emergency third string)
The Buccaneers will also miss several important players:
- WR Chris Godwin Jr. (fibula)
- RB Bucky Irving (foot/shoulder)
- OLB Haason Reddick (ankle/knee)
- OLB Markees Watts (hand)
- T Luke Haggard
- G Elijah Klein
- DT C.J. Brewer
Impact of Missing Players
Boutte’s performance this season has been impressive. He is tied for third in the NFL with six deep receptions and holds the top EPA per target amongst qualified wide receivers at +0.98. His absence leaves a noticeable gap in the Patriots’ offense.
Head coach Mike Vrabel has indicated that rookie Kyle Williams will take on a larger role to fill directly for Boutte. Williams has had limited experience this season, having played just 21.1% of the offensive snaps with six targets. Despite his struggles to connect with quarterback Drake Maye, he has shown potential.
Running Back Situation
In the backfield, the Patriots have elevated veteran D’Ernest Johnson from the practice squad for the second week in a row. He will likely serve as the third running back behind rookies TreVeyon Henderson and Terrell Jennings. Johnson has yet to see any offensive snaps this season, raising questions about his readiness.
Particularly concerning is Stevenson’s absence, as he is the team’s best pass-blocking back. The Patriots may need to rely heavily on Henderson and Jennings for both rushing and receiving duties. Given Tampa Bay’s struggles against passes to running backs, this could be a golden opportunity for Henderson.
Changes on Defense
Defensively, the Patriots will have to adjust without Elliss. His contributions have been significant, and the team plans to rotate Jack Gibbens and Jahlani Tavai to cover his absence. Additionally, linebacker Darius Harris has been elevated from the practice squad to assist on special teams.
New England’s defense generally remains intact. All-Pro cornerback Christian Gonzalez will be active, ready to match up against Tampa Bay’s rookie wide receiver Emeka Egbuka. This matchup promises to be exciting, given both players’ respective abilities.
Looking Ahead: Game Day Expectations
As the Patriots visit Raymond James Stadium at 1 p.m. ET on Sunday, they aim to improve their road record to 5-0. The combination of missing key players and the strength of the Buccaneers’ blitz-heavy defense presents challenges for New England’s offense. However, with strategic replacements and focused preparation, they hope to secure a victory.
