The New England Patriots were off to a strong start under new head coach Jerod Mayo. Unfortunately, the squad received devastating news about injuries this week, which will undoubtedly set them back. Multiple important players will be sidelined for an extended period of time, with up to eight starters missing their Thursday night game against the New York Jets.
The Patriots will play their first primetime game of the season against Aaron Rodgers and the Jets, but they will be without several key starters. On Wednesday, the team officially ruled out starter offensive lineman Vederian Lowe and backup guard Sidy Sow.
That is only the beginning of their line’s issues; they have also listed center David Andrews and right tackle Mike Onwenu as questionable due to numerous injuries. If either of them is unable to go, the Patriots will face significant challenges with so many backups guarding their quarterback. Andrews has been the leader and pillar at O-Line for many years.
Onwenu is their top lineman and has always been healthy throughout his career; if he is unable to play, the Jets’ defense should make short work of the reserves.
Patriots’ Wednesday injury report and #NEvsNYJ game statuses: https://t.co/FEPqnrhNmq pic.twitter.com/57mm9DYnQ8
— New England Patriots (@Patriots), September 18, 2024.
Their main linebacker, Ja’Whaun Bentley, is apparently sidelined for the season, but there are two other notable defenders on this list. Both Jabrill Peppers and Deatrich Wise Jr. are vital members of their defense, which struggled last week against the Seattle Seahawks.
With all of these injuries, they will need to perform considerably better against Rodgers if they hope to stay in the game. If the game is close late in the second half, Rodgers will be in a less favorable position, but if they can deliver an outstanding defensive performance, they will almost surely be able to win.
#Patriots outstanding LB Ja’Whaun Bentley’s injury is worse than previously reported, and sources suggest he is lost for the season with a torn pec.
Bentley had recorded over 100 tackles in each of the previous three seasons and was on his way again. A terrible reality. pic.twitter.com/ysMGlNCwkR
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet). September 16, 2024.
Ezoic
The Jets, on the other hand, can use this division rivalry game to start racking up wins and giving their Hall of Fame quarterback more reps following his injury last year.
Will the Patriots and Mayo triumph despite their injuries? If they do, it will undoubtedly augur well for Mayo’s future with this team. Their future starting quarterback has been on the bench, and each win will be critical in establishing a new culture for Drake Maye to enter.
