The New England Patriots are gearing up to face the Atlanta Falcons, aiming to expand their winning streak to six games. This matchup will take place at Gillette Stadium, with kickoff scheduled for 1 p.m. ET on Sunday.
Patriots Inactives and Roster Changes
Ahead of the game, the Patriots announced several inactives, including:
- RB Rhamondre Stevenson (toe)
- S John Saunders Jr.
- DT Eric Gregory
- G Ceadan Wallace
- OLB Caleb Murphy
- QB Tommy DeVito (emergency third quarterback)
Stevenson, who is the starting running back, was ruled out due to a toe injury that kept him sidelined during practices this week. The exact timing of his injury is uncertain, as he played in the closing moments of last week’s game against the Browns.
Running Back Depth After Injuries
In response to Stevenson’s absence, the Patriots promoted D’Ernest Johnson from the practice squad. Johnson will join projected starter TreVeyon Henderson and rookie Terrell Jennings in the backfield. Jennings, who has been elevated from the practice squad multiple times this season, was added to the 53man roster earlier this week.
Henderson, a secondround rookie, is anticipated to lead the Patriots’ rushing attack while Jennings is expected to contribute on early downs. Johnson has a history as a thirddown back, offering valuable experience in special teams and kick returns.
Falcons Inactives and Questionable Players
The Falcons also announced their inactives, featuring:
- CB Billy Bowman Jr. (hamstring)
- DL Zach Harrison (knee)
- RB Nathan Carter
- OT Michael Jerrell
- WR Casey Washington
- DL Ta’Quon Graham
Notably, Atlanta’s questionable players, including S Jessie Bates III, EDGE Jalon Walker, and EDGE Leonard Floyd, are all active for the game.
Patriots’ Defensive Adjustments
On the defensive front, the Patriots are adjusting to life without safety Kyle Dugger, who was recently traded to the Steelers. They did not elevate any safeties from the practice squad, leaving them with limited depth at this position for Sunday’s game.
Secondyear DB Dell Pettus may take on a larger role following the Dugger trade, while Marte Mapu, though listed as a linebacker, might also see action in the safety position. The Patriots aim to improve their coverage against tight ends, a crucial factor as they face Falcons Pro Bowler Kyle Pitts.
Keys to Victory
To secure a win against the Falcons, the Patriots will need to focus on limiting the impact of Pitts and RB Bijan Robinson in the passing game. While the Falcons boast the topranked pass defense in the league, they have shown vulnerability against the run. The Patriots will also leverage their offensive line continuity to establish an effective rushing attack.
This intriguing matchup will spotlight how the Patriots’ changing roster navigates injuries while facing a formidable opponent in the Falcons.