FOXBOROUGH, Mass. — The New England Patriots will be without their starting running back Rhamondre Stevenson for the third consecutive game due to a persistent toe injury, as confirmed by the team’s announcement ahead of Thursday night’s matchup against the New York Jets at 8:15 p.m. on Prime Video.
Compounding the Patriots’ challenges, starting wide receiver Kayshon Boutte, who leads the team with five touchdown receptions, will also miss his second straight game due to a hamstring issue. The team’s defensive lineup will be without linebacker Christian Elliss (hip), who is sidelined for the second week in a row. Additionally, tight end Austin Hooper, who previously had a concussion, will be unavailable for the first time this season.
On the opposing side, the Jets will be missing starting wide receiver Garrett Wilson, who is dealing with a right knee sprain and is expected to be out for three to four weeks, as reported earlier in the week.
In Stevenson’s absence, rookie running back TreVeyon Henderson has stepped up significantly, showcasing his talent with impressive touchdown runs of 55 and 69 yards in Sunday’s thrilling 28-23 victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The Patriots are also facing a depth concern at running back, with Terrell Jennings, a former practice squad member, listed as questionable after suffering a knee injury against the Buccaneers.
To bolster their running back options, the Patriots are likely to elevate veteran D’Ernest Johnson from the practice squad for the third week in a row. They recently signed sixth-year running back Jonathan Ward to their practice squad, providing them with another potential elevation option alongside rookie Rushawn Baker.
Despite the injury setbacks, the Patriots are experiencing a strong season with an impressive record of 8-2, marking seven consecutive wins, which ties them with the Denver Broncos for the NFL’s longest active winning streak. Meanwhile, the Jets have managed to turn their season around, securing victories in their last two games after a tough start with seven losses.
As both teams head into this pivotal matchup, the resilience and adaptability of the Patriots, along with the Jets’ newfound momentum, sets the stage for an exciting game.