Jets vs. Patriots: Key Replacements for Boutte, Hooper, and Stevenson
The New England Patriots are set to face off against the New York Jets, but both teams will be dealing with significant player absences. The Patriots will be missing several key players including wide receiver Kayshon Boutte, running back Rhamondre Stevenson, and tight end Austin Hooper, affecting their overall offensive strategy. Meanwhile, the Jets have placed their star receiver Garrett Wilson on injured reserve, further complicating their game plan.
Key Players Missing for New England Patriots
The inactive list for the Patriots includes:
- Kayshon Boutte (WR) – hamstring injury
- Rhamondre Stevenson (RB) – toe injury
- Austin Hooper (TE) – concussion
- Christian Elliss (LB) – hip injury
- Joshua Farmer (DT) – ankle injury
- Ceadan Wallace (G)
- Tommy DeVito (QB) – emergency third quarterback
Boutte and Stevenson, both starters, are sidelined for the second and third consecutive games respectively. The absence of Hooper poses additional challenges as the Patriots rely heavily on their tight ends in the offensive formation.
Strategic Adjustments on Offense
The Patriots have established a tendency to employ heavy personnel groupings, utilizing fewer than three receivers on over half of their offensive snaps. Hooper has been integral to this strategy, contributing significantly with both his pass-catching ability and blocking skills.
With Hooper out, the team will likely experiment with different formations. Potential adjustments include:
- Utilizing WR Mack Hollins as a versatile “move” tight end
- Incorporating fullback Jack Westover in two-back groupings
- Adding an extra offensive lineman for additional support
At running back, rookie TreVeyon Henderson is expected to take on a lead role, especially after impressive performances including two long touchdown runs last week. Backup Terrell Jennings is also active but may be limited due to recent knee issues.
Defensive Concerns for New England
Defensively, the Patriots will again be without starting linebacker Christian Elliss. Jack Gibbens has filled in admirably, aided by fellow linebackers Jahlani Tavai and Marte Mapu. Despite efforts, the Patriots’ run defense struggled against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, prompting concerns ahead of the matchup with the Jets, who possess a strong running attack.
Rookie DT Joshua Farmer is also missing, leading to Eric Gregory making his NFL debut. The effectiveness of New England’s run defense will be crucial, particularly against Jets running back Breece Hall, who has excelled this season.
Game Details
The Patriots, currently on a seven-game winning streak, aim to extend it to eight against their division rivals. Kickoff is scheduled for 8:15 p.m. ET at Gillette Stadium. A victory would secure a 9-2 record for the Patriots, surpassing their total wins for the previous two seasons combined, marking a strong start under their new coaching regime.
As the game approaches, both teams look to adapt strategies to overcome significant player losses, making for an intriguing matchup.
