The New England Patriots will enter their crucial road game against the New York Jets on December 24, 2023, without five key starters, as confirmed by head coach Mike Vrabel. Despite this setback, there remains a possibility that rookie running back TreVeyon Henderson could make an appearance as he progresses through concussion protocol.
Among the starters ruled out for the matchup are wide receivers Kayshon Boutte (concussion) and Mack Hollins (abdomen), defensive end Harold Landry III (knee), linebacker Robert Spillane (ankle), and left guard Jared Wilson (concussion). Additionally, defensive tackle Milton Williams will not be activated from the injured reserve list this week, and his projected replacement, Khyiris Tonga, is also sidelined due to a foot injury. Reserve receiver DeMario “Pop” Douglas is listed as questionable with a hamstring issue.
In the wake of last Sunday’s intense comeback victory against the Baltimore Ravens, the Patriots have had to manage significant injuries. Henderson, who leads the team with 776 rushing yards on 148 carries (averaging 5.2 yards per carry), exited the Ravens game in the second quarter after a head injury. His limited participation in practice on Wednesday wearing a red, non-contact jersey marked the beginning of his recovery. By Friday’s practice, he was in a regular jersey, indicating further progress.
The final hurdle for Henderson to return to game action involves an evaluation by an independent neurological consultant, which must confirm his readiness for play.
Vrabel acknowledged the challenge posed by the injuries but emphasized the team’s resilience. “Everybody deals with it. This is not something that’s new to the National Football League. We’ll elevate some guys from the practice squad and have to sign some guys and go from there,” he said.
The Patriots, currently standing at 12-3, have a chance to clinch their first AFC East title since 2019 if they win their final two games—against the Jets (3-12) and at home versus the Miami Dolphins (6-9). Should they win both contests, coupled with a loss by the Denver Broncos to the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 18, the Patriots would secure the AFC’s No. 1 seed and a first-round playoff bye.
A victory over the Jets would also mark the Patriots’ eighth consecutive win on the road this season. “I think that it would mean a lot. We know how difficult that is,” Vrabel commented, highlighting the significance of finishing undefeated away from home, especially against a division rival. “Nothing is guaranteed. You have to go over there, you have to prove it, and you have to play.”
As the team prepares for this important matchup, the focus will be on overcoming these obstacles and maintaining their strong performance in pursuit of postseason success.
