DeMario Douglas, TreVeyon Henderson Active for Patriots vs Jets in Week 17
In a crucial matchup, the New England Patriots face the New York Jets on Sunday at MetLife Stadium. This Week 17 game features some key active players despite a lengthy injury report. Notable inclusions are wide receiver DeMario Douglas and rookie running back TreVeyon Henderson.
Patriots’ Active Roster Ahead of Jets Game
The Patriots have been managed to activate Douglas, who was dealing with a hamstring issue. TreVeyon Henderson has also passed concussion protocol after leaving last week’s game against the Baltimore Ravens. Both will play vital roles in the offense this Sunday.
Inactive Players for the Patriots
- WR Kayshon Boutte (concussion)
- OLB Harold Landry III (knee)
- LB Robert Spillane (ankle)
- NT Khyiris Tonga (foot)
- LG Jared Wilson (concussion)
- OT Marcus Bryant
- QB Tommy DeVito (emergency third quarterback)
Notably, Boutte and Mack Hollins, who was placed on injured reserve earlier in the week, will miss the game. This leaves the Patriots with a limited wide receiver corps, including Stefon Diggs, Kyle Williams, and Efton Chism III.
Offensive Strategies with Limited Roster
The absence of Hollins, who was a significant contributor with 46 receptions and 550 yards this season, impacts the Patriots offense. The team may utilize more two-tight end sets with Hunter Henry and Austin Hooper active, as they have struggled to run effectively from this formation.
Out of two-tight end packages, the Patriots have averaged 3.5 yards per carry, ranking 30th in the NFL. Conversely, their efficiency in the passing game with two tight ends remains solid, ranking sixth in expected points added per drop-back (+0.21).
Key Players in the Running Game
In addition to Henderson and lead back Rhamondre Stevenson, D’Ernest Johnson will also be available. With Henderson coming off a head injury, Stevenson may see an increased workload. He played 83.1% of snaps in the previous game.
Defensive Challenges Ahead of Jets Matchup
The Patriots are facing challenges on defense as well, with several key players sidelined. The front seven is particularly thin, missing NT Khyiris Tonga and LB Robert Spillane. Not activating DT Milton Williams from injured reserve has further added to their defensive woes.
- DT Jeremiah Pharms Jr. and DT Leonard Taylor III have been signed and elevated to bolster the line.
- Jack Gibbens and Christian Elliss are expected to start at linebacker.
Stopping the Jets’ running game, led by RB Breece Hall, poses a challenge. Hall boasts 24 explosive runs this season, making it crucial for the Patriots to contain him effectively.
Special Teams Outlook
The Patriots must also be cautious on special teams, as the Jets lead the NFL in kickoff return average (30.1 yards) and are seventh in punt return average (13.4 yards). Managing field position will be critical for New England’s success.
Kicking off at 1 p.m. ET, the Patriots aim to navigate through these challenges to secure a victory against the Jets in this pivotal Week 17 matchup.
