Here’s a sigh of relief for Patriots fans: all four players listed as questionable for Week 17 are cleared to play against the Jets. But here’s where it gets interesting—while this is undoubtedly good news, it doesn’t erase the fact that New England is still grappling with a slew of injuries that could impact their performance on the field. Let’s break it down.
The Patriots received a much-needed boost with running back TreVeyon Henderson (concussion protocol), wide receiver DeMario Douglas (hamstring), fullback Jack Westover (illness), and cornerback Charles Woods (foot) all getting the green light for Sunday’s game. Henderson’s status was confirmed on Saturday after he passed an independent concussion check, but the other three players were question marks until the last minute. Their availability adds depth to a roster that’s been stretched thin by injuries.
But here’s the part most people miss: While these players are active, the Patriots still have seven players ruled out, including key contributors like wide receiver Mack Hollins (abdomen) and defensive tackle Milton Williams (ankle). Hollins was placed on injured reserve on Saturday, and Williams remains on IR despite returning to practice earlier this week. The inactives list also includes Kayshon Boutte (concussion), Jared Wilson (concussion), Khyiris Tonga (foot), Harold Landry III (knee), and Robert Spillane (ankle), along with healthy scratches Tommy DeVito and Marcus Bryant.
On the Jets’ side, the inactives list features QB Tyrod Taylor, WR Quentin Skinner, TE Mason Taylor (their leading receiver), OL Marquis Hayes, DT Mazi Smith, and S Chris Smith. Notably, three players—DT Jay Tufele, ED Will McDonald IV, and LB Kiko Mauigoa—were ruled out earlier and placed on injured reserve. Offensive lineman Xavier Newman-Johnson, however, is active despite being listed on Friday’s injury report.
Here’s the controversial question: With both teams dealing with significant injuries, does this level the playing field, or does it give one team a subtle edge? The Patriots’ ability to field their questionable players could be a game-changer, but the Jets’ depth might just keep things competitive. What do you think? Does this matchup favor one team more than the other, or are we in for a surprisingly even battle?
Kickoff is set for 1 p.m. ET at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford. Tune in to see how these injury-riddled rosters stack up—it’s shaping up to be a game where every play counts. Let us know your predictions in the comments!
